Senator Abubakar Bagudu, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, has revealed that achieving President Bola Tinubu’s goal of a trillion-dollar Economy may be crucial in tackling the rising issue of irregular migration, known as the “Japa” syndrome. This trend, characterised by a considerable number of Nigerians pursuing improved opportunities overseas, frequently under dire circumstances, has emerged as a significant worry. Bagudu conveyed a hopeful outlook, believing that by implementing effective economic strategies, Nigeria has the potential to turn this situation around and create additional prospects for its people domestically.
During an anti-migration conference in Abuja, hosted by the non-governmental organisation Blacks Ancestral Native Communities (BANC), Bagudu detailed the national government’s strategy to tackle irregular migration by focusing on Economic Development and job opportunities. He noted that the initiatives put forward by the Tinubu administration are designed to revitalise the economy and generate jobs, especially for young people, who are frequently most affected by the nation’s economic difficulties. He believes these efforts are integral to a larger plan aimed at establishing Nigeria as a frontrunner in Africa, transforming it into a destination where migrating is an option instead of an obligation.
Migration should occur willingly, not as a means to escape the country.
Bagudu highlighted the significance of reaching a two-trillion-dollar economy, stating that it would lay the groundwork for tackling numerous issues contributing to irregular migration. It will facilitate the resolution of the Japa phenomenon. He expressed that Nigeria does not aim to prevent its citizens from migrating; instead, the objective is to guarantee that such migration occurs willingly, driven by individual decisions rather than necessity or a shortage of options. The minister emphasised the various adverse effects stemming from irregular migration, such as human trafficking and drug trafficking. He noted that Nigeria’s increasing youth demographics can be beneficial if a suitable economic framework is established to facilitate legal, documented migration.
He urged potential migrants to secure appropriate documentation and thoroughly assess the types of employment opportunities available in their target countries. Bagudu stated that the Nigerian administration is diligently developing several policies and programs focused on empowering the younger generation. These efforts are anticipated to create opportunities for youth success within Nigeria, alleviating the need to seek opportunities abroad for financial stability. By prioritising local job creation and economic growth, the government aims to establish Nigeria as an environment where young individuals can flourish.
Poverty, education, insecurity and other issues should be addressed.
At the conference, the keynote speaker, Professor Patrick Lumumba, a well-known Kenyan attorney, activist, and analyst, supported the views expressed by Bagudu, urging Nigeria to establish more ambitious economic objectives. Lumumba emphasised that for Nigeria to earn esteem both in Africa and globally, it should aim to become a two-trillion-dollar economy. He criticised the praise for Nigeria’s existing $500 billion economy as inadequate and inspired leaders to strive for greater aspirations. Lumumba expressed concerns about African leaders’ indulgence in lavish entourages and luxuries at international events like the recent China-Africa Investment Summit in Beijing instead of prioritising genuine economic progress.
Dr. Chibuzor Onyema, the founder and CEO of BANC, emphasised the importance of tackling the underlying issues driving irregular migration, such as poverty, joblessness, insufficient access to quality education, political unrest, and insecurity. He asserted that governmental efforts should focus on fostering conditions that enable youth to thrive in their own nations, thereby reducing the appeal of migration. Onyema states that addressing these root problems is crucial for alleviating the urgency that compels many individuals to abandon their native lands in challenging situations.
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Sani Bako, the Chairman of BANC, elaborated on the group’s dedication to combating human trafficking and exploitation through extensive research, active advocacy, and involvement in the community. He stated that BANC aims to aid in the integration of migrants, advocate for necessary policy changes, and foster global collaboration to tackle the issues linked with irregular migration. By implementing focused economic strategies and actively tackling the fundamental issues, Nigeria can build a future where its people have the means to thrive locally