In recent years, “Japa” has grown beyond just a slang in Nigeria. It has become a movement, a dream for some and a reality for many. “Japa,” the act of relocating abroad in search of greener pastures, often symbolises hope for a better life. On the flip side, “Japada,” returning home after living abroad, is met with mixed emotions, sometimes even a sense of shame.
But here’s the truth: whether you stay, leave, or return, what truly matters is living with intention and pursuing growth. And let’s not forget—there are the good, the bad, and the ugly everywhere. It doesn’t matter where you are; every country has its opportunities and its challenges.
When the Grass Looks Greener: The Sweet Side of Japa
Relocating abroad can open doors that may seem impossible at home. Better education, improved healthcare, career opportunities, exposure to global systems, and the dignity of structured societies are part of the “good” side of Japa.
Some of the sweet sides of Japa include:
- Access to quality education and world-class institutions: Many migrants enjoy better learning facilities, research opportunities, and globally recognised degrees.
- Better healthcare and improved social systems: Access to advanced medical care and structured social support systems provides security and peace of mind.
- Career advancement and professional recognition: Opportunities to work in industries that value expertise and innovation often lead to growth and fulfilment.
- Exposure to structured societies that reward discipline and hard work: Living in systems where rules are enforced teaches accountability and fairness.
- Opportunities to earn in stronger currencies and send support back home: Higher income potential enables financial stability and the chance to support loved ones.
- Broader networking and cross-cultural relationships: Meeting people from diverse backgrounds opens doors to global friendships, partnerships, and collaborations.
- Personal development—building resilience, adaptability, and independence: Facing new challenges abroad helps individuals grow stronger and more self-reliant.
- Spiritual and faith growth through challenges and new experiences: Difficulties abroad often deepen personal reflection and spiritual connection.
Beyond comfort, Japa stretches your mindset. Living in a new country pushes you out of your comfort zone, teaching adaptability, discipline, and resilience. Many who relocate often testify that the experience gave them perspective, broadened their thinking, and helped them build skills they never imagined. From a faith perspective, moving abroad can also be a season of growth, a place where God teaches patience, reliance on Him, and clarity of purpose.
Behind the Instagram Filter: The Not-So-Pretty Side
Relocation is not always the fairytale it looks like on social media. Behind the beautiful Instagram pictures and polished LinkedIn updates, there are sacrifices many don’t talk about. Loneliness is one of them—starting life afresh in a new land can be isolating, especially when you leave behind family, friends, and familiar community support.
Some of the not-so-pretty sides of Japa include:
- Culture shock: Adjusting to a new culture, language, or lifestyle can be overwhelming and disorienting.
- Loneliness and isolation: Leaving behind family, friends, and support systems often leads to homesickness and emotional struggles.
- Pressure to succeed: Expectations from loved ones back home can feel suffocating, especially when life abroad is tougher than it looks.
- Discrimination and racism: Migrants sometimes face bias, unfair treatment, or constant reminders of being “different.”
- Overqualification and underemployment: Degrees and skills are not always recognised, forcing many into survival jobs.
- High cost of living: Rent, bills, and taxes abroad can swallow up earnings, making financial stability harder than imagined.
- Loss of community: The warmth, belonging, and support system of home is often hard to replace abroad.
Beyond these struggles, there is also the invisible pressure of perception. Once abroad, people assume life is automatically rosy, and you may feel pressured to keep up appearances. Cultural and racial barriers add another layer—whether it’s facing discrimination, adapting to new societal norms, or constantly explaining your accent and identity. For many, the reality includes watching their hard-earned degrees lose value, pushing them into jobs they never pictured themselves doing.
Silent Struggles: The Part Nobody Posts About
The “ugly” side of Japa is often the unspoken struggle behind closed doors. Depression, homesickness, and even questioning one’s decision to leave are common. The feeling of living “in between worlds,” not fully belonging abroad yet also disconnected from home, can be mentally exhausting.
And then, there’s Japada. Many who choose to return home after years abroad struggle with fear: What will people say? Will I be mocked? How do I explain my return when everyone thinks I’ve been living the dream?
Social media doesn’t make it easier. If you’ve built a narrative of success online, the thought of returning can feel like admitting defeat. But here’s the truth: Japada is not a failure. Coming back home after living abroad can be an act of courage, wisdom, and maturity. It could mean you’ve discovered where your value is most appreciated, or that you’ve realised fulfilment isn’t about location but about purpose.
Japa or Japada: It’s Not a Competition, It’s a Calling
Whether you Japa or Japada, the key is intentional living. Relocation should never be driven solely by pressure, competition, or desperation. Ask yourself: What unique skills and value do I bring to the table? Which environment aligns with my gifts and will help me thrive? How prepared am I mentally, emotionally, and spiritually for the challenges ahead?
If you stay, let it be with purpose. If you leave, let it be with intentionality. And if you return, hold your head high—because your journey is not a competition, it’s a calling.
Life is not about impressing others or meeting societal expectations. Whether at home or abroad, the goal is growth, peace of mind, and walking in purpose. Don’t let pressure push you into unwise decisions. Don’t let shame keep you from making the right choice.
Remember: Japa or Japada, your story is valid, and it’s yours to own.
Get Support on Your Journey
Unsure of the right step to take? Our online counsellors are here to walk with you. With experienced professionals available, we offer guidance tailored to your needs, helping you navigate the emotional, cultural, and spiritual realities of relocation or reintegration.