A new report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has revealed that one in four Nigerians aged 15 and above desires to leave their current communities, either permanently or temporarily.
The findings, published in the General Household Survey-Panel (GHS-Panel) Wave 5 2023/2024, were unveiled in Abuja on Thursday.
The report highlights a growing trend among Nigerians to relocate within or outside the country, with men and young people showing the highest levels of interest.
“Migration Dreams: Young Nigerians Lead the Way”
According to the NBS, 31.2% of men aged 15 and above expressed a desire to relocate, compared to 19.3% of women in the same age group.
Youth between the ages of 20 and 30 are the most eager to migrate, with 34.5% indicating they want to leave.
This is followed by teenagers aged 15 to 18 at 26.9%, and adults aged 31 to 64 at 25%.
In contrast, only 6.5% of individuals aged 65 and above expressed interest in relocating.
“This data underscores a worrying trend,” said a migration expert, Dr. Angela Oladele.
“Our younger population, who are the backbone of the country, are increasingly looking for opportunities elsewhere.”
“Japa Culture: Moving Abroad or to Abuja”
The report revealed that while 35.3% of those who wish to migrate prefer to move to Abuja, 26.6% want to relocate to another country entirely.
The preference for international migration is particularly strong in Nigeria’s southern zones, while residents in the northern zones are more likely to move to Abuja or another state.
Experts say this reflects a disparity in aspirations based on regional realities.
“For many in the South, the dream of a better life is tied to leaving the country,” said sociologist, Professor Ifeoma Egwu.
“But for those in the North, relocating to Abuja offers hope for improved opportunities.”
“Households Feeling the Impact of Migration”
Migration has already affected many Nigerian households, with the NBS reporting that 45.4% of families had at least one former member who has relocated within or outside the country.
Interestingly, half of these former household members are women.
The report further highlighted the main reasons for migration, with marriage leading at 28.2%.
This was followed by individuals moving to live with relatives or friends at 21.2%, and those seeking new jobs or business opportunities at 14.6%.
“Rural vs. Urban Migration Trends”
The survey also revealed a difference in migration patterns between rural and urban households.
While 49.3% of rural households reported having at least one member who had migrated, only 37% of urban households had the same experience.
This suggests that rural residents are more likely to seek opportunities elsewhere than their urban counterparts.
“Japa Trend Poses a Policy Challenge”
The term “japa”, slang for escaping difficult conditions in Nigeria, has become a common narrative among Nigerians, particularly the youth.
Experts believe this trend reflects deep-seated socio-economic issues.
“The desire to migrate is a clear message to policymakers,” said economist Mr. Taiwo Balogun.
“It shows dissatisfaction with local opportunities, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of trust in the system to deliver a better future.”
The NBS report, part of a longitudinal study that began in 2010, tracks household changes over time.
It provides valuable insights for shaping policies that address welfare, employment, and socio-economic challenges.
“What Lies Ahead for Nigeria?”
The findings have sparked debates about the country’s future and the growing urgency to tackle issues driving migration.
“If one in four Nigerians wants to leave, what does that say about our progress as a nation?” asked civil rights activist, Aisha Bello.
“Japa may be an escape for some, but for the country, it’s a crisis we must address.”
As discussions continue, many Nigerians hope that solutions will be found to create an environment where people no longer feel the need to leave in search of better opportunities.
