The Senate, through its Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, on Wednesday declared that the mass migration, otherwise known as ‘Japa’, by Nigerians to overseas countries on a daily basis must be reversed.
The committee, now chaired by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, made the declaration at its maiden meeting held in Hearing Room 305 of the Senate wing of the National Assembly.
Senator Natasha, at the well-attended meeting, said the reversal of the ‘Japa’ syndrome would be a priority for the committee, as the tide must be stemmed.
“This committee will do this by collaborating with relevant stakeholders to encourage Nigerians, particularly the youth, to believe more in their country and not adopt the mindset of wanting to rush out,” she said.
“Patriotism is earned, not enforced or forced, and this will guide us in identifying steps to build our economy here using the energy of our diaspora.
“We will look at countries like India, Pakistan, and even Egypt in Africa to see how they have grown their capacities and made their countries attractive for a larger percentage of their citizenry to stay
