The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Governor Buni and the Potiskum Modern Market

    Governor Buni and the Potiskum Modern Market

    Sir: It has been four long years since the foundation of the N2.6 billion Potiskum Modern Market, Trailer Park project was laid, and the people of Potiskum are still waiting for its completion. The project was touted as a game-changer for the local economy, and the people of Potiskum had high hopes that it would bring much-needed jobs and economic growth to the area. However, despite the initial promise and fanfare, the project has yet to make significant progress, and the state government seems to have paid little attention to it.

    At the time of inauguration, Governor Mai Mala Buni promised that the project would be completed within 12 months. This timeline was ambitious, but the people of Potiskum were willing to give the government the benefit of the doubt. Nonetheless, as the months turned into years, it became clear that the project was not a priority for the state government. The lack of progress on the project has been frustrating for the people of Potiskum, who are desperate for economic opportunities and jobs.

    The Potiskum Modern Market project was designed to provide a modern and conducive environment for traders and business owners to operate. It was expected to attract investors and stimulate economic growth in the region. However, four years on, the project remains stalled, leaving the people of Potiskum in limbo. The market is still in a state of disrepair, and business owners are struggling to make ends meet.

    In addition to the modern market, the governor also announced plans to construct a modern truck park in Potiskum in 2019. This project was expected to further boost the local economy and provide even more jobs for the people of Potiskum. Ye like the modern market project, the truck park project has made little or no progress since its inception. This lack of progress is not only frustrating for the people of Potiskum but also damaging to the local economy.

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    Potiskum is the most populous town in Yobe State and a major business hub. The majority of its inhabitants are business owners who are desperate for ways to enhance their businesses. The completion of the modern market and trailer park would have provided a much-needed boost to the local economy. However, the state government’s inaction on these projects has left the people of Potiskum feeling abandoned and neglected.

    The people of Potiskum are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress on these projects. They are tired of waiting for the government to fulfil its promises and are beginning to lose hope. The lack of economic opportunities and jobs has led to high levels of unemployment and poverty in the area. The people of Potiskum are desperate for a change, and they are looking to the state government to provide it.

    The state government’s inaction on these projects has eroded the trust and confidence of the people in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises. The people of Potiskum feel that the government has let them down and that their needs and concerns are not being taken seriously. This lack of trust and confidence has led to a sense of disillusionment and disengagement among the people of Potiskum.

    The completion of the Potiskum Modern Market and trailer park project is critical for the economic development of Yobe State. It has the potential to generate jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve the lives of the people of Potiskum. The project is not just a matter of infrastructure development; it is a matter of economic survival. The people of Potiskum are desperate for economic opportunities, and the state government has a responsibility to provide them.

    Therefore, the state government must take immediate action to complete these projects. The people of Potiskum have waited long enough, and it is time for the government to fulfil its promises and deliver on its commitments. The economic development of Yobe State depends on it. The state government must prioritize the needs of the people of Potiskum and take concrete steps to address their concerns.

    •Kasim Isa Muhammad,Potiskum, Yobe State.

  • Interrogating Sanwo-Olu’s perspectives

    Interrogating Sanwo-Olu’s perspectives

    Sir: Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s lecture which he delivered extemporaneously at the Justice Reform Summit 2024 was not only an impetus for sober reflection but also offers a gratifying imperative for national discourse.

    Speaking on the theme “Enhancing the Administration of Justice for Growth, Investment Protection and Security in Lagos State”, the governor brilliantly dissected some tectonic issues.

    In one of his comparative reflections, Singapore, like he said, is a tiny dot on the world map; you hardly know where it is, but it is a city state that has earned its place in the world.

    Lagos, by sheer coincidence, also is like a dot in the country; it’s less than 0.4 % of the size of this country. So, technically, it also can be a dot and of that 0.4 %, 1/3 (one third) of it is water. But, by sheer coincidence, it is the commercial, economic nerve-centre of the country. Singapore holds its place too as a major economic hub worldwide today.

    Whilst the jury is out on the comparative expediency of Lagos and Singapore, there is compelling reason to believe that Lagos hasn’t exploited the best economic benefit of its landmass as a factor of production.

    Whereas Lagos and Singapore are similar in size and resource paucity, they are far apart in the way scarce resources are managed.

    It is a given that any country or city that contends with size constraints would automatically experience a competitive pull in the taxonomy of its land-use, the value chain created from that pull will also determine the economic viability of such a nation state.

    Professionals in the built industry domiciled in Lagos have been handicapped by the state’s laissez-faire treatment of the most valuable resource available to her. Land being the incubator for revenue generation and a catalyst for reducing unemployment could be better administered going forward.

    Singapore’s land administration is in total contrast to what obtains in Lagos. Whilst Singapore delivers express and timeous registration to land titles, Lagos seems to be lagging behind on this investment nexus.


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    Registering land transactions in Lagos is a complex and tiring process that often requires multiple visits to the registry thereby creating loopholes for extortions.

    A situation where the consent of the governor on land transfer is delayed for more than three months sometimes for upward of one year is a big disincentive to investment.

    A country bellyaching for foreign direct investment must put in every effort to removing bottleneck in land administration and Lagos State can become a reference point for a renaissance that could be replicated in other states.

    Another dissonance clause in Governor Sanwo-Olu’s comparative prognosis is what Singapore does with holders of empty and undeveloped real estate. According to Singaporean author, Tong Hui Tang: “We already run out of land. Each piece of land Singapore has already has its intended purpose. It is just how much do we want to spend to maximise each acre of land – building higher/smarter buildings, more complex transport systems – till the point where the benefits outweigh the costs”.

    The above doesn’t suggest that Singapore has ever allowed unused pieces of land or landed properties to remain so in perpetuity for the owners to pass to their heirs in probationary successions at the expense of public utility.

    Until Lagos State Government begins to articulate the inventory and put every piece of land to economic use, the state will continue to trail Singapore light years behind.

    Good authority holds that a conservative estimate of 20% of Lagos solid landmass is left undeveloped and is being held in perpetuity by land speculators thereby encouraging investment hiatus.

    This is certainly not how to build a mega city.

    •ESV Bukola Ajisola bukymany@yahoo.com

  • JAMB’s exclusion of pharmacy technicians from Direct Entry

    JAMB’s exclusion of pharmacy technicians from Direct Entry

    Sir: The Reformed Forum of Pharmacy Technicians in Nigeria (RFPTN) strongly urges JAMB to meticulously re-evaluate its stance on the Direct Entry program and reconsider its exclusion of pharmacy technicians.  We firmly believe that these professionals deserve the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and refine their skillset through higher education. RFPTN stands ready and willing to collaborate constructively with JAMB to address any concerns they may harbour and to work collaboratively to establish a streamlined and efficient registration process specifically tailored for our members.

    Despite our unwavering commitment to fostering a collaborative dialogue, our efforts to engage with JAMB on this critical issue have regrettably proven unsuccessful thus far. Our attempts to establish a productive working relationship have been met with a concerning lack of response. RFPTN formally submitted a letter requesting a courtesy meeting with the Registrar of JAMB, proposing a mutually convenient date for a discussion. However, this request was inexplicably disregarded. This lack of responsiveness is disheartening and stands in stark contrast to the collaborative spirit that is necessary to address this issue effectively.

    We are aware that the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has provided assurances regarding their engagement with JAMB with the intention of resolving this matter. However, there is a paucity of evidence indicating any tangible progress from these efforts. It is crucial for JAMB and PCN, both federal government agencies, to cultivate a robust and collaborative working relationship, particularly on matters that directly affect their respective stakeholders. We strongly encourage both agencies to establish a clear and comprehensive understanding of the situation and to work cohesively to arrive at a lasting resolution to this longstanding issue.

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    A collaborative effort between these two agencies would not only pave the way for our members to pursue higher education but would also contribute significantly to fostering a more robust and efficient healthcare system within Nigeria. The exclusion of pharmacy technicians from the Direct Entry program is a policy that stands counterproductive to the well-being of the profession and the Nigerian healthcare system at large.

    We, at the RFPTN, strongly believe that fostering a collaborative dialogue with JAMB and the PCN is the most effective pathway to achieving a positive resolution. We are unwavering in our commitment to working together with all stakeholders to ensure that qualified pharmacy technicians are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to serve the Nigerian healthcare system to the best of their ability.

    •Shagba Humphrey T. President, RFPTN, rfptnig@gmail.com

  • On the shutdown of national grid

    On the shutdown of national grid

    Sir: We of the Centre for Social and Economic Rights (CSER) condemn in the strongest terms, the shutting down of the national power grid thus the plunging of the whole nation into darkness by the organized labour in the prosecution of its declared nationwide strike action. It is an act of economic sabotage deserving of the full weight of the law.

    We are shocked and devastated by the reported criminal acts and economic sabotage unleashed on helpless Nigerians by the organized labour over its dispute with government on the issue of minimum wage. While we recognize the inalienable rights of workers to embark on strike action as a legitimate tool for advancing its demands, we are at a loss to rationalize the shutting down of the national grid which is an essential national security asset. We view this action as an insurrection meant to unseat a legitimately elected government by undemocratic means.

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    In the same vein, we received reports of the criminal assault on Nigerians using the brutal tactics of the terrorist IPOB/ESN group in enforcing the strike action; assaulting and beating up workers who turned up for work, forcing the closure of schools to deprive students access to education, particularly those writing the West African Examination Council (WAEC) examination, shutting down airports to prevent air flight operations among several other illegalities.

    By its action of plunging Nigerians into pains and anguish through economic sabotage and criminal assault of fundamental human and economic rights over dispute on wages, organised labour has derailed from the vision of its founding fathers of creating wealth and prosperity for the Nigerian people, to imperilling the economic interests of the people for reasons other than national interest.

    We call on the government to ensure the security of life and property of citizens; resist the assault on education and economic interests of Nigerians which is being undermined by the action of attacking and molesting workers who want to exercise their right to work as guaranteed by the constitution and international conventions of which the country is a signatory.

    We equally urge the Nigerian government to ensure that any assault of the rights of Nigerians and Nigeria by those who have taken the law into their hands under the pretext of prosecuting a strike action as a result of wage dispute, are met with the full weight of the law.

    •Nelson Ekujumi,Executive Director, CSER

  • Of grades over learning

    Of grades over learning

    Sir: The Nigerian schooling system prioritises grades over knowledge thereby resulting in relentless pursuit and pressure to achieve high academic success. It is disheartening that the grading system that ought to enhance gradual development of students has now been made to promote unhealthy competition and hatred among students.

    It is so distressing seeing prospective leaders of tomorrow question the essence of reading when they have no examination to take. You are likely to have heard Nigerian students say “books on strike and pen go rest” after taking their final exams.

    Now, tell me the essence of grading system which only forces students to cram and fails to prepare them ahead for the betterment of humanity at large?

    If Nigerian students are groomed to take learning and knowledge seriously the way they take grades and examinations, Nigeria will become one of the most thriving countries with functional and practical education. Rather, grading system has been reduced to serve as a major determinant of knowledge. Even a student of English that cannot tell the nine parts of speech apart when used in context now believes he/she knows grammar because his/her result shows “Grade A” in grammar.

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    Students must be made to realise the value of education beyond cramming for excellent certification. It must be made clear that education is the acquisition of knowledge and not acquisition of certification.

    Witnessing the type of schooling system Nigeria is nurturing won’t leave you in shock when you hear a student commits suicide because of low grade/ CGPA. Yes, the Nigerian educational system has been made to appear like a battle ground where students compete with one another to get the highest CGPA. Invigilators witness students collect extra sheets during exams but they hardly see them do extra reading after exams.

    Sadly, students are no longer motivated by the intelligence and brilliance of even their lecturers let alone their fellow classmates. To many students, if you can’t give them a test or examination, you don’t deserve to lecture or give them notes because they see lecture notes as nothing but ordinary papers whose internalisation only guarantees them excellent grades. Indeed, in the rat race for grades, the very spirit of education has lost its value.

    Ours will be a great country with functional and practical education, if proper orientation is given to students on the real essence of schooling beyond acquiring certification. Students must be made to understand that education is the acquisition of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values and schooling is one of its agents. Students’ orientation should uncover the fact that education helps reveal the hidden potential of students thereby making them explore the pleasure that comes with learning without necessarily being under pressure while reading to take school exams.

    Most importantly, Nigerian grading system must, to some reasonable extent, be made to watch over gradual intellectual improvement of students. Consequently, grading system must encourage popular intellectual participation among students and not be made to appear like a monster whose aim is to snatch breath out of students.

    If learning is to enhance personal growth, students should be encouraged not to prioritise grades over brilliance. They must be motivated to ask themselves the essence of distinction if it cannot help push poverty into extinction.

    The prioritisation of grades over knowledge is detrimental and unhealthy to the overall development of education in Nigeria. The alarming rate of depression and suicidal thoughts over grades can be drastically reduced when Nigerian schooling system makes students see the value and essence of education beyond acquiring excellent certification.

    •Kenny Ola, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

  • Regulate food prices and establish national food bank

    Regulate food prices and establish national food bank

    Sir: While the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration grapples with possible measures to address food inflation in Nigeria, there is an immediate need for it to review past efforts that have been introduced by successive governments that failed to meet the desired expectations. Recall, that President Muhammadu Buhari, in a bid to encourage local production of rice banned the importation of rice and also provided some levels of incentives to farmers to increase rice production in Nigeria. The policy led to the increase of rice farmers but it did not succeed in bringing down the prices of rice. It is believed that such a policy failed to meet the expectations of the government because the government did not take advantage of the incentives it provided to farmers to regulate the final price of rice.

    The Tinubu administration also plans to remove VAT on food items and some other essential commodities. This is a coomendable move; it should however be tailored towards bringing down the prices of such commodities as such government must enforce some level of regulation in the final prices of those commodities in the market. The government also intervened recently to prevent the scarcity of food and bring down its price by giving directives for the release of millet, grains and rice from the national food reserves unfortunately such gestures did not stop the continuous increase in the prices of food items in the market simply because there was no price regulation from government on what should be the final cost of food items.

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    In an economic emergency being experienced by Nigeria, stringent measures must be taken by the government to stabilize the market rather than relying on the commercialization of the market by producers who then hijack the forces of demand and supply.

    It is time the federal government boosted its national food reserves by establishing government-owned farms across the country. The farms should produce essential items like grains, millet, wheat, cassava and livestock and they should be located in each of the six geopolitical zones of the country. This would also require adequate storage and processing facilities to be located in those regions. Such establishments will not only contribute to reducing unemployment but serve as a buffer stock for food supply in Nigeria. Such measures would also play a vital role in regulating the prices of these commodities in the market because producers would have to compete in line with the government’s price. It would also boost the revenue generation of the government.

    The federal government should also provide incentives such as subsidies on fertilizers, modern farming equipment and soft loans to farmers. However, to avoid the pitfalls of the past, these incentives must be tied to government prices. This would serve as a price control measure. In other words, many of the farmers or investors that benefit from government incentives should be subjected to the price control and regulation of the government on those commodities. The government will also need to set up a monitoring and enforcement task force to monitor compliance at the various markets.

    The government must not also abdicate its responsibility of providing security to farmers in the rural areas. Flashpoints in various states and local governments where bandits and terrorists regularly terrorize farmers should be identified and the federal and state government must work harmoniously to secure those areas. Government must also put measures in place to tackle the effect of climate change on farm produce. Flood prevention and mitigation measures should be implemented in agro-communities. 

    • Victor Emejuiwe, Centre for Social Justice, Abuja

  • Open letter to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf

    Open letter to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf

    • By Auwal Dankano

    Sir: The flashes from your one year as governor of Kano State have continued to be disturbing to the majority of Kano citizens.

    I saw you sitting on the executive chair, giving orders to demolish buildings worth billions of Naira. The consequences are significant and far reaching; driving Foreign Direct Investment away from our beloved state and rendering people impoverished. The building sector in Kano is currently struggling with unemployment; yes, the clients are afraid of the second round of demolition. Do you know that those demolished sites are now hideouts for drug dealers and phone snatchers?

    You have awarded contracts for the construction of two bridges in the state at the cost of N30 billion. Let me do the mathematics. This stupendous sum will make our six out of 19 unutilised dams in Kano to generate jobs and produce agricultural produce through irrigation. Secondly the contracting firms are foreign, so why not give the jobs to an indigenous company?

    By the way, do you know that our state universities are now in sorry states? The atmosphere for learning in those institutions have been bastardised and students forced to learn in hard way. That N30 billion can make them compete with their peers.

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    I still wonder why at this critical time, your government sponsored 500 of state indigenes for their second degree at Indian varsities. My fear is if they graduated you have no place to employ them.

    Do I need to remind you of the need to create an avenue where by our long lists of graduates will undergo a one year internship on entrepreneurship? You could even have used the Dangote Ultramodern Skills Acquisition Centre, built by your predecessor for an internship programme to reskill the army of our idle youths.

    The other picture, no less disturbing is the signing of law that reduced the Kano Emirates form five to one, while reinstating the dethroned emir. I know you desire a second term after the expiration of this tenure. Do you know that you created unnecessary political enemies that will fight you at the polling booth and hence the looming possibility of the dethroned emirs being brought back?

    It is apparent that you have chosen to serve minority interests. You have chosen to serve for one term. You have chosen to rewrite history of Kano Emirates. Why, oh, why, your Excellency!

    •Auwal Dankano,

    Kano.

  • On the quest for state police

    On the quest for state police

    • By Kenechukwu Aguolu

    Sir: The call for state police resonates deeply with a fundamental yearning for safety and security. It embodies a collective aspiration for a society where lives and properties are safeguarded, and individuals can thrive without fear. The argument for state police rests on three pivotal points, each accentuating potential benefits that could significantly enhance the nation’s security landscape:

    The proposition of state police is centred on establishing a command and control structure closer to the communities they serve. This proximity promises faster response times to incidents and enables more immediate intervention during emergencies. By bridging the gap between law enforcement agencies and local communities, state police units can effectively address security threats with agility and precision.

    State police officers, being indigenous to their communities, are believed to possess an unparalleled understanding of local dynamics and crime patterns. This intimate familiarity equips them with the insights needed to devise targeted crime-fighting strategies tailored to the specific needs of each locality. By leveraging this deep-seated knowledge, state police units can effectively combat crime at its roots, thereby enhancing overall safety and security.

     There exists a prevailing belief that state police officers, hailing from the areas they serve, would demonstrate a heightened commitment to maintaining peace and order. This intrinsic connection to their communities fosters a sense of duty and responsibility, driving greater dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. By forging strong bonds with the local populace, state police units can cultivate trust and cooperation, essential for effective community policing.

    However, it is crucial to acknowledge the historical context surrounding state police in Nigeria. Past instances of abuse led to its abolition during the military era. Also, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for overfamiliarity and bias among officers stationed in their localities. The close ties between law enforcement personnel and the communities they serve may lead to reluctance to enforce the law objectively, particularly when dealing with acquaintances or relatives. Additionally, doubts persist regarding the ability of state governments to adequately fund state police, posing significant challenges to the viability.

    Regardless of the chosen approach—whether through the introduction of state police or the maintenance of the current system—certain foundational elements are indispensable for building an effective policing:

    Right recruitment: The selection of individuals with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to public service through rigorous screening processes is paramount. By upholding stringent standards in recruitment, law enforcement agencies can ensure that only the most qualified candidates are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding communities.

    Adequate staffing: Nigeria’s police force currently falls short of international standards for officer-to-citizen ratios, underscoring the urgent need for increased staffing levels. Addressing this shortfall is crucial, particularly given the country’s security challenges. Adequate staffing not only enhances the effectiveness of policing efforts but also fosters a sense of security and reassurance among the populace.

    Training and equipment: Ongoing training programs are essential to equip officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. Additionally, providing police personnel with modern equipment and resources enhances their capacity to maintain law and order in their communities. By investing in training and equipment, law enforcement agencies can ensure that officers are adequately equipped to tackle emerging security threats.

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    Proper funding: Adequate financial investment in law enforcement is necessary to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of policing efforts. This includes budget allocations for operational expenses, infrastructure development, and technological advancements to enhance crime prevention and detection capabilities. By prioritizing funding for law enforcement, governments demonstrate a commitment to the safety and security of their citizens.

    Adequate welfare: Competitive salaries, allowances, accommodation, and comprehensive welfare packages are essential to attract and retain qualified officers. Providing life insurance plans and other benefits demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of law enforcement personnel and their families. By prioritizing officer welfare, the government can enhance morale and retention rates, ensuring effectiveness in policing efforts.

    While Nigeria has made commendable progress in reducing insecurity, it is imperative to recognize that security agents alone cannot solve the complex security challenges facing the nation. A holistic approach that addresses socio-economic factors, strengthens the justice system, and prioritizes education is essential.

    The pursuit of state police in Nigeria embodies a profound yearning for safety and security—a desire to create a society where individuals can live free from fear and insecurity. While challenges abound and scepticism persists, the potential benefits of state police cannot be ignored. By addressing historical concerns, investing in foundational elements of effective policing, and adopting a holistic approach to crime prevention, Nigeria can chart a path towards a safer and more prosperous future for all its citizens.

    •Kenechukwu Aguolu,

    Kenerek1@gmail.com

  • Still on PBAT’s one year in office

    Still on PBAT’s one year in office

    • By Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye

    Sir: The past year has been a roller-coaster ride, leaving Nigerians with mixed feelings amid the down-spiral in the economy. The country, known for its vibrant culture, vast resources, and dynamic population, is currently grappling with a significant hunger crisis, with the poverty level increasing daily.

    While acknowledging the difficulties and criticisms faced by President Bola Tinubu, it is important to evaluate his overall efforts and strategies employed over the course of the year in addressing the economic situation.

    The president’s first step of removing the petrol subsidy is a significant economic reform that should be applauded. This bold move, which even former presidents could not undertake, was aimed at reducing the financial burden on the government and redirecting the funds into more productive sectors. Although the removal of the subsidy has been painful for Nigerians due to the rise in fuel prices, it is a necessary pain required for Nigeria to grow. The goal is to ensure that the subsidy money is directed at the nation’s development rather than into the pockets of political cabals.

    Another major policy change was the decision to float the naira, allowing market forces to determine its value. This is to unify the multiple exchange rates that had plagued the economy and created distortions. Compared to when the country dealt with a parallel exchange rate, the adoption is a more transparent and market-driven, the administration hoped to attract foreign investment, boost exports, and stabilize the economy.

    The floating of the naira initially led to some volatility and inflationary pressures. However, it has also increased transparency in the foreign exchange market and made it more attractive for investors. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been actively managing the transition, ensuring that adequate measures are in place to cushion the impact on the economy.

    Tinubu administration has focused on economic reforms and diversification. It has championed policies aimed at revitalizing other sectors of the economy, particularly agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Several initiatives are being implemented to improve the business environment, attract foreign direct investment, and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The administration’s efforts have started to show results even though it is minimal and the future might be less challenging.

    Another giant feat is the implementation of the student loan for Nigerian students aimed at ensuring that education is accessible to all Nigerians.

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    A major challenge remains the insecurity issues that continued under Tinubu’s leadership. Security threats like kidnapping, insurgency in the northeast, banditry in the northwest and other forms of insecurity in other regions continue to be on the rise. While the administration has taken steps to enhance security, including increasing funding for the military and police, over all the impact has been rather limited.

    A more robust and comprehensive strategy is needed to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and social inequality. Despite efforts to stabilize the economy, inflation has remained high, driven by factors such as supply chain disruptions, exchange rate volatility, and increased fuel prices. This has eroded the purchasing power of Nigerians, affecting all households.

    The Tinubu administration needs to push more aggressive policies that promote economic stability, control inflation, and protect the most vulnerable populations. This includes measures to boost domestic production, manage currency fluctuations, and provide targeted subsidies or support.

    President Bola Tinubu’s first year has been a period of significant achievements and notable challenges. His administration has made commendable progress in areas such as economic reforms, infrastructure development, agriculture, social welfare, education, and health. These efforts reflect his commitment to driving sustainable development and improving the lives of Nigerians.  However, more needs to be done to elevate Nigeria from its current status of being poverty entrenched.

    •Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye,

     London, United Kingdom.

  • On the Japa syndrome

    On the Japa syndrome

    Sir: The term “Japa,” is associated with Nigerians migrating to foreign countries in search of better opportunities, and has seen a significant increase in recent years. This trend, driven by the desire for economic empowerment and a safer living environment, has recently faced a slowdown. The depreciation of the naira has made emigration more expensive, and stricter immigration rules in popular destination countries have contributed to this deceleration.

    The initial wave of Nigerian emigrants primarily sought economic empowerment and improved living standards for themselves and their families. However, in recent times, increasing insecurity within Nigeria has become a significant reason for people to leave. The growing levels of violence and instability have driven individuals to seek refuge in countries where the safety of lives and property is more guaranteed.

    The decision to migrate is complex and comes with potential consequences. On one hand, successful emigration can lead to significant financial gains, better job opportunities, and superior educational prospects for children. On the other hand, it can result in cultural dislocation and initial difficulties in adapting to a new environment, among other challenges. Given these potential outcomes, it is essential to carefully weigh all variables before deciding to leave Nigeria. Factors such as age, educational background, skill set, family size, necessary documentation, financial requirements, and available migration routes must be thoroughly evaluated. The uncertainties inherent in the emigration process might make it less appealing for risk-averse people

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    With meticulous planning and execution, Japa can lead to the desired outcomes. The initial phase in a new country often presents challenges, requiring resilience, hard work, and appropriate skills to navigate successfully. Many find that their efforts eventually result in an enhanced quality of life and better opportunities for their children. Nonetheless, like any significant life venture, the outcomes of Japa can vary, with some individuals achieving success while others do not.

    The increasing trend of emigration has significant implications for Nigeria, particularly in terms of brain drain. Skilled professionals such as doctors, project managers, engineers, and educators leaving the country puts pressure on critical sectors. For example, the healthcare system often faces shortages of qualified doctors due to this trend, which can greatly impact the nation’s ability to provide adequate medical care. This loss of talent presents a major challenge to Nigeria’s development and its ability to offer quality services to its citizens.

    In response to these challenges, the role of the Nigerian government is crucial. To address the reasons driving citizens to emigrate, the government must prioritize improving welfare and security within the country. This involves creating more job opportunities, ensuring the safety of lives and properties, and enhancing the education and healthcare systems, among other measures. Additionally, improving the overall quality of life for Nigerians is essential. By tackling these fundamental issues, the government can reduce the incentives for emigration, encouraging citizens to invest their talents and efforts within Nigeria rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

    The phenomenon of Japa is multifaceted, extending beyond the pursuit of economic empowerment to encompass a wide range of motivations, including the quest for safety and better living conditions. Although it seemingly offers the promise of a brighter future, it also brings substantial risks and challenges. Stressing the importance of careful planning and well-informed decision-making is essential for individuals contemplating this course of action. By understanding and addressing the underlying motivations behind Japa, the government can work towards fostering a more stable and prosperous Nigeria, ultimately reducing the drive for mass emigration.

    •Kenechukwu Aguolu,<kenerek1@gmail.com>