Wale Ojo Urges Nigerians to Abandon “Japa Mentality,” Calls It Embarrassing
Award Winning Actor Wale Ojo has called on Nigerians to abandon the “japa mentality,” a term used to describe the growing trend of people wanting to leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad. In an interview with ThisDay, Ojo expressed his deep affection for Nigeria, despite having lived abroad for many years.
“I have a lot of aspirations. Over the years it would have been extremely easy for me not to come to Nigeria at all. I could easily have stayed in the United States or United Kingdom, or Germany, or even Russia. And I know I would have been okay doing what I do there. But I love Nigeria, and I will always love Nigeria no matter what,” Ojo stated.
Ojo highlighted the numerous challenges facing Nigeria but emphasized his commitment to contributing towards the country’s development and realizing his vision for a better Nigeria. He criticized the widespread desire to emigrate, especially among professionals such as doctors, who often seek better opportunities abroad.
“The ‘japa’ mentality I think is embarrassing. I think it’s unfortunate, you know where doctors think they go and do their stuff elsewhere and whereas when I go to the United States or go anywhere, Nigerians are applauded for their ingenuity,” Ojo explained.
Ojo called for more engagement between the government and the creative industry, stressing the importance of collaboration to address the country’s issues. “When you will come home there are many problems, I want to be a part of the solution; I don’t want to be talking about the problem I want to be a part of the solution. I put a lot of things in place to bear the solution if the government wants to engage with the creative industry they need to come and talk to people like us because we have a vision for the country; we don’t do ‘follow-follow,’” he added.
Ojo’s passionate plea reflects his dedication to Nigeria and his desire to see the country thrive through collective effort and innovative solutions.
