Don’t Japa, Tinubu urges young Nigerians
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- President Bola Tinubu urged young Nigerians not to leave the country, encouraging them to stay and build their future.
- He spoke in a televised broadcast marking Nigeria's Democracy Day.
- The president's message addresses the phenomenon of 'Japa,' where young professionals emigrate for better opportunities.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has called on the nation's youth to remain in the country and contribute to its development, rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Speaking in a televised broadcast on Friday to commemorate Nigeria's Democracy Day, Tinubu directly addressed young Nigerians who are reportedly troubled by the country's current state. He urged them not to "abandon ship."
"To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here," the president stated. He emphasized that great nations are built by individuals who stay to resolve challenges, not by those who leave.
His remarks come amid a significant trend known as 'Japa,' where thousands of young Nigerian professionals emigrate annually in search of better economic prospects and living conditions. The president's message is a direct appeal to counter this brain drain and foster a sense of national commitment.
To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.
Originally published by Premium Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.