Experts in Lagos urged Nigerian first-class university graduates on Sunday to reject the "japa" syndrome of emigration to build their country [1].
The call highlights a critical struggle to retain high-level talent within Nigeria. The loss of top-performing graduates, often referred to as brain drain, threatens the nation's ability to innovate and develop its internal infrastructure and economy [1].
The appeal took place during the closing of the eighth edition of the annual M-First Series workshop [2]. Industry leaders and academics said to the graduates that it is important to utilize their skills locally rather than seeking opportunities abroad [1].
Speakers said there are emerging opportunities within Nigeria that can be capitalized on by those with high academic achievements [1]. They said the country requires the intellectual capacity of its best graduates to drive sustainable national growth [2].
The workshop served as a platform to connect these graduates with professionals across various disciplines [1]. By highlighting local pathways to success, the experts aimed to curb the trend of talent flight that has seen many skilled workers leave the region [2].
The M-First Series focuses on guiding top students toward impactful careers. The organizers said that retaining this specific demographic of high achievers is essential for long-term stability and progress in Lagos State and across the wider federation [2].
“Experts urged Nigerian first-class university graduates to shun the ‘japa’ syndrome.”
The 'japa' phenomenon reflects a broader systemic issue where economic instability and a lack of professional infrastructure push Nigeria's most educated citizens toward the Global North. By targeting first-class graduates, these experts are attempting to create a psychological shift, framing emigration not as a personal victory, but as a collective loss for national development. The success of such appeals depends on whether the Nigerian government and private sector can provide the actual structural incentives required to make staying a viable alternative to leaving.
