For many young Nigerians, the word “Japa” has become synonymous with chasing opportunities beyond the borders of Nigeria. Chiamaka Ikeanyin, a software engineer with Wunderflats, who now calls Berlin home, embodies the complex emotions and sacrifices associated with this decision.
In a recent interview with German television station, Deutsche Welle (DW) and minitored by allnaijadiaspora, Ikeanyin shared her candid thoughts on what she misses most about Nigeria, offering a glimpse into the bittersweet experience of starting a new life abroad.
While acknowledging the professional growth and exciting prospects Germany offers, she paints a picture of longing for the familiar – the warmth of her loved ones, the vibrant culture, and the comforting tastes of home.
“When a Nigerian says I want to Japa,” explains the Nnamdi Azikiwe University graduate of Computer Science, “it’s like I just want to leave the country and go to a new country, leaving behind friends and loved ones, to explore new opportunities, see how life is outside of Nigeria, and get to grow in my career and every other aspect of life.”
Ikeanyin’s journey initially defied the “Japa” trend. Despite the urgings of friends who had already ventured abroad, contentment with her career progress in Nigeria kept her rooted. However, the allure of professional advancement and a desire to broaden her horizons eventually outweighed the comfort of familiarity.
“I felt so comfortable because I earned pretty well in Nigeria,” she says, highlighting the economic realities that often push talented individuals to seek opportunities elsewhere. “Job opportunities are really like what makes a lot of Nigerians want to leave.”
However, her decision to leave came at a price. The transition to a new culture and language presented significant challenges. “The hardest part of being in Germany,” she admits, “is maybe the language and the culture.”
Despite the professional fulfillment and personal growth she finds in Germany, Ikeanyin’s heart still yearns for the warmth and connections she left behind. “I miss my family, I miss my friends, I miss the food,” she confides. “I miss the people in general and also the warmth.”
