Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chair of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), urged Nigerian youth to consider migrating to countries that offer better opportunities instead of destinations that may lead to frustration.
She made this statement during a convocation ceremony at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), where she delivered a lecture titled “Diaspora Engagements for National Development.”
In her address, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the importance of discouraging irregular migration, particularly dangerous routes that involve crossing deserts.
“It’s crucial to discourage irregular migration. While we cannot completely stop migration—whether regular or irregular—we must find ways to prevent tragic outcomes,” she stated. “We’re not saying don’t ‘japa’ (a Yoruba term meaning to escape); instead, we’re encouraging you to ‘japa’ to better places, where you can improve yourself rather than face frustration. I’m pleased to see some people returning home.”
Dabiri-Erewa advised graduates that if they receive job offers abroad after completing their education, they should carefully consider their destinations.
She also called on Nigerians in the diaspora to play an active role in the country’s development. Highlighting the successes of Nigerians worldwide, she stated, “Their achievements abroad should be mirrored back home. We must encourage and engage our diaspora to invest in Nigeria.”
Reflecting on her travels, she remarked, “Home will always be home. What kind of home do we want to return to? This is a challenge I pose to many of our brothers and sisters abroad. Many want to come back, but they often cite issues like poor electricity and insecurity.”
Dabiri-Erewa pointed out that, despite challenges such as unreliable power supply, progress can be made if Nigerians work together: “If we wait for everything to be perfect before we contribute to building our nation, we may wait indefinitely.”
She concluded with a call to action: “Nigerians at home must collaborate with those in the diaspora. Just as Americans built America and Indians built India, it is only Nigerians who can build Nigeria.”
