Senate committee tackles Japa syndrome, seeks to reverse mass migration

DDM News

The Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, led by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi), has expressed deep concern over the increasing wave of migration, often referred to as ‘Japa,’ by Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad.

The committee decried this growing trend and called for efforts to curb it, emphasizing the need for national development that encourages citizens to remain in the country.

Speaking at the maiden meeting of the committee held at the Senate wing of the National Assembly in Abuja, according to Diaspora digital media (DDM), Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that the issue of mass migration must be addressed in the nation’s best interest.

She noted that for this to happen, Nigerians, especially the youth, must be encouraged to believe in their country and resist the mindset of rushing to foreign lands.

Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed that patriotism should be earned and not forced, adding that the committee’s focus would be on fostering national pride while also exploring ways to tap into the potential of Nigerians in the diaspora.

“We need to identify steps that can help build our economy and attract the Nigerian diaspora energy to contribute positively to the nation,” she said.

The committee plans to examine successful models from other countries, including India, Pakistan, and Egypt, which have managed to reverse similar migration trends.

These nations, according to the senator, have been able to retain their citizens by creating opportunities for growth and development that make their countries attractive.

As part of its strategy, the committee intends to collect a database of Nigerians in the diaspora, categorized by country, to facilitate collaboration with international organizations and identify specific areas of focus that could motivate Nigerians abroad to return home.

“We will look at India as a model for reversing the Japa syndrome,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said, highlighting how the country has become a global hub for Information and Communication Technology (ICT), providing jobs and opportunities for its citizens.

She further emphasized that the committee’s efforts would be geared toward leveraging diaspora contributions to bolster Nigeria’s economy and build a sustainable future for the next generation.

In his remarks, the committee’s immediate past chairman, Senator Victor Umeh (APGA, Anambra), expressed confidence in Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s leadership.

He expressed optimism that her approach would elevate the committee’s work and make a significant impact in addressing the Japa issue.

“I believe she has what it takes to galvanize efforts and reverse the Japa trend by tapping into the vast potential of Nigeria’s diaspora communities,” Umeh said.

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