The Senate’s Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, chaired by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, declared on Wednesday the need to reverse the mass migration phenomenon known as ‘Japa,’ where Nigerians migrate abroad daily.
During its first meeting in Hearing Room 305 of the National Assembly, Senator Natasha emphasized that addressing the ‘Japa’ syndrome will be the committee’s priority. She stated, “This committee will collaborate with stakeholders to encourage Nigerians, especially youth, to invest their belief in their country rather than seeking to leave.”
She highlighted that “patriotism is earned, not enforced,” guiding their efforts to build the economy using the diaspora’s energies. The committee plans to draw lessons from countries like India, Pakistan, and Egypt on how to retain their citizens by enhancing local opportunities.
To start, they will compile a database of Nigerians abroad and work with international organizations to devise strategies to attract them back home. Senator Natasha cited India’s success in becoming a global ICT hub, creating numerous jobs for its citizens, as a model for reversing the ‘Japa’ trend.
Former committee chair Senator Victor Umeh expressed confidence in Natasha’s leadership, predicting her ability to successfully harness resources from the diaspora and enhance the attractiveness of Nigeria for those at home.
