'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Companion, an association of Muslim men in business and professions, has issued a compelling call for Nigerian youths to focus on acquiring relevant education and skills before considering migration abroad in search of better opportunities. This message was highlighted in a recent communique from the organization’s 2024 Conference and 6th National Discourse held at the National Universities Commission, Abuja.
The conference, themed "Between Patriotism and Self-Preservation," addressed the growing concern of brain drain, commonly referred to as 'Japa,' which affects many Nigerians seeking opportunities outside the country. The event provided a platform for discussing the challenges faced by Nigerian youths at home and the uncertainties they encounter abroad.
Keynote speakers at the discourse included the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Ibrahim Jibrin, who presided over the event, and the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, represented by the Minister of State for Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande. Also featured were Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), represented by Hon. Abdul-Rahman Terab, and Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na'Allah, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja.
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| Cross session of guests and participants at the event |
The communique emphasized that while migration can be a legitimate and sometimes necessary choice, especially given the high labor demand in developed countries, it must be pursued through proper and legal channels. It condemned the harsh realities faced by many Nigerians abroad, including exploitative labor conditions, illegal detention, and other severe challenges.
The discourse acknowledged the current administration’s efforts to address the country’s socio-economic issues but called for enhanced governmental support to create an environment that encourages the youth to realize their full potential domestically. The session urged the government to implement effective policies and provide incentives to retain talented individuals within Nigeria and discourage risky migration attempts.
Speakers at the event highlighted the need for Nigerian youths to shift their focus from trivial pursuits on social media towards meaningful self-development and contributions to national progress. They encouraged young people to actively participate in solving the nation’s problems and to be patient as ongoing government interventions start to bear fruit.
The communique also addressed the socio-economic hardships faced by Nigerians due to recent policy changes, such as the removal of petrol subsidies. It criticized the flawed implementation of palliative measures and urged the government to establish social registry departments at local levels to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most. Additionally, it called for strengthened measures against crude oil theft and vandalism and for the revival of agricultural support programs to restore confidence in farming communities.
The Companion expressed gratitude to all speakers and participants who contributed to the success of the event, including Senator Jibrin, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa, Prof. Na'Allah, and other key figures. The conference concluded with a series of panel discussions and intellectual games designed to further explore and address the 'Japa syndrome' and its implications for Nigerian youth.
As the discourse wrapped up, the organization urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to focus on bridging infrastructure gaps and promoting rural development to counteract urban drift and utilize natural resources effectively. The call to action reflects a commitment to empowering Nigerian youths to harness their potential and contribute positively to the nation’s development.
