Let’s be honest — being Nigerian can feel exhausting sometimes.
Some people don’t even watch the news anymore because everything is sad, annoying or crazy. The economy is shaky, insecurity is frightening, corruption is everywhere, and many systems that should make life easier seem to be permanently under construction. Sometimes it feels like you need five connections, three uncles in government, and one miracle just to survive.
So when Nigerians started “japa-ing” in large numbers over the last few years, nobody was really shocked.
At this point, if the average Nigerian could afford the visa fees, flight tickets, proof of funds, application stress, and emotional drama, many would probably relocate before the next fuel price announcement.
Yet beneath the jokes, memes, airport selfies, and “soft life” captions lies something deeper: exhaustion, uncertainty, and the longing for a better life.
Some people moved abroad and found opportunities they never imagined. Others discovered that relocation does not automatically remove life’s struggles. Some have had to return home after difficult seasons abroad. Some families have battled disappointment, loneliness, depression, financial pressure, or the painful realization that every country has its own challenges.
As Christians, how do we navigate all this emotionally and spiritually?
First, we must remember that our lives are not meant to be directed by panic, pressure, or social media comparisons. A believer’s decisions should be guided by God.
Whether you stay in Nigeria or relocate abroad, the real question is not, “Where is greener?” but “Lord, where are You leading me?”
God is deeply invested in the details of our lives. He knows which environment will shape you, stretch you, protect you, and position you for His purpose.
Some people will flourish abroad. Others will flourish here in Nigeria. Neither location automatically guarantees success, peace, or fulfillment outside of God’s will.
The Bible tells us in Genesis 26:1–3 that there was a famine in the land, and Isaac considered leaving. But God instructed him to remain where he was. Human wisdom said “move,” but divine wisdom said “stay.”
And what happened?
In Genesis 26:12–13:
“Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the Lord blessed him.
And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great.”
Notice something powerful: Isaac prospered in famine.
God is not limited by economy, geography, exchange rates, or immigration policies. The God who blessed Isaac in a difficult land can still sustain, preserve, and prosper His children anywhere.
So to the Nigerian constantly comparing themselves with people abroad and sinking into discouragement — breathe. Someone else’s location is not the measure of your destiny.
Social media only shows edited moments. Nobody posts their tears beside visa applications, loneliness abroad, night shifts, cultural struggles, or emotional battles. The God who wrote your story has not forgotten your address.
Walk with Him. Let Him direct your steps.
And to the Nigerian who has already “japad,” never forget God in the pursuit of a better life. Let Him remain your Lord in every nation. Don’t become so consumed with survival, success, or assimilation that you lose your spiritual identity.
Pray for your family back home. Pray for Nigeria. Pray for wisdom and strength to remain light wherever you are.
One of the most beautiful examples of this is Nehemiah. Nehemiah had a prestigious position as cupbearer to the king of Persia — arguably the most powerful empire of his time. He was comfortable, influential, and far removed from the struggles of Jerusalem.
Yet his heart still broke for home.
When he heard that Jerusalem’s walls were in ruins, he didn’t mock from a distance or condemn his people. He prayed. He interceded. And eventually, he became part of the rebuilding process.
We too must resist becoming people who only criticize Nigeria without praying for her.
Whether you are in Lagos, Abuja, London, Canada, or “somewhere in Texas doing night shift,” never stop carrying your nation before God.
As believers, our ultimate security is not tied to passports, economies, or political systems. It is tied to Christ.
At the end of the day, whether we stay or go, we belong to God. And wherever He places us is the best place for us to be in that season.
Most importantly, may our hearts remain focused on the greatest “japa” of all — our eternal journey to God’s kingdom.
As Philippians 3:20 reminds us:
“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
May God grant Nigerians wisdom for every decision, peace in every season, and hope that rises above circumstances.
And whether we stay or go, may we never leave Him behind.