So, you japa’d—packed your bags, left Nigeria, and started a new life abroad. Maybe it was for school, work, or just to find peace of mind. But now, for one reason or another, you’re considering moving back. Welcome to the “reverse-japa” club.
Believe it or not, more Nigerians abroad are contemplating a return home. And while it may seem like an unusual move, it can actually be the right decision—if properly planned.
Why Are Nigerians Moving Back Home?
The decision to leave Nigeria wasn’t easy, and neither is the decision to return. Life abroad isn’t always as glamorous as social media makes it seem. Many Nigerians struggle with loneliness, racism, extreme weather, high living costs, visa issues, or simply not feeling at home. Some find that their dreams abroad don’t match reality.
Maybe you studied overseas but can’t land a good job, or the hustle is too demanding with little reward. Or maybe you just miss home—the food, the culture, and the sense of belonging. Whatever your reason, reverse-japa is a valid choice, and there’s no shame in it.
How to Plan Your Reverse-Japa Move
1. Define Your “Why”
Before booking that one-way ticket, take a moment to reflect: Why am I moving back? Is it for family, career growth, or financial reasons? Are you making this decision out of frustration, or do you see real opportunities in Nigeria?
Understanding your motivation will help you plan effectively and avoid regrets. Remember, Nigeria comes with its own challenges, so ensure you’re returning for the right reasons.
2. Start Planning Early
Reverse-japa isn’t something to do impulsively. It requires strategy and preparation.
- Research job opportunities in Nigeria.
- Connect with returnees and professionals on LinkedIn or Facebook.
- Save up, as settling back can be costly.
Also, prepare mentally and emotionally. Nigeria has changed since you left, and so have you. Expect some level of culture shock and different social expectations.
3. Secure a Job or Income Source
One of the smartest moves before relocating is securing a steady income. Ask yourself:
- Can I work remotely for my current employer?
- Can I leverage my foreign experience to start a business?
- Can I freelance or consult?
If none of these options apply, start job hunting months before your return. The hiring process in Nigeria can be slow, so update your CV, optimize your LinkedIn profile, and leverage your professional network.
4. Manage Your Expectations
Nigeria isn’t perfect—there’s traffic, power issues, and inflation. But there’s also community, opportunity, and the freedom to build something meaningful.
If you expect a seamless transition, you may be disappointed. But with the right mindset and preparation, you can thrive.
Returning Home Isn’t Failure
Reverse-japa isn’t a step backward—it’s simply a new chapter. With careful planning, financial stability, and a strong “why,” you can turn your return into a success story.
Who knows? The life you’ve been chasing abroad might just be waiting for you right here at home.