Elozonam Reflects on Nigeria’s Challenges and the Impact of Japa Culture

Big Brother Naija star Elozonam has shared his thoughts on the growing trend of Nigerians relocating abroad, popularly referred to as the “japa” culture, and how it has deeply affected his relationships. Speaking on the ‘Uncolored’ podcast, Elozonam opened up about the emotional toll of losing close connections due to migration, highlighting Nigeria’s broader challenges.

Elozonam revealed that the economic struggles in Nigeria have made life increasingly difficult, not just for him but for many others. Reflecting on his own experiences, he explained how his relationships with his twin brother and other siblings have weakened since they moved abroad. He also admitted to feeling hesitant about forming new friendships, fearing they could be short-lived due to the likelihood of relocation.

“The economic hardship in Nigeria is unbearable. I won’t say I got hit the hardest, but as far as I know, it has affected a lot of my relationships,” he said during the interview.

Elozonam recalled that the wave of departures began in 2018 when his former boss, with whom he had a close bond, moved to Canada with his family. He described this event as starting a chain reaction, saying, “It’s like he opened the floodgate for everybody; people in my life started relocating abroad.”

When asked how this trend has influenced his social interactions, Elozonam admitted, “You’re now too wary of making new friends because they might relocate abroad tomorrow. So everything is on the surface level now; you can’t make real friends because they can relocate anytime.”

He concluded by expressing a sentiment shared by many Nigerians, saying, “Nigeria is not getting any better. We all know this.”

Elozonam’s candid remarks shed light on the personal and emotional consequences of Nigeria’s economic challenges and the widespread desire for greener pastures abroad. His story reflects the realities faced by countless Nigerians struggling with the effects of migration on their relationships and sense of stability.