LCCI advocates polices to address impact of ‘japa’ on economy

The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), has called for policies aimed at retaining talent, enhancing local opportunities, and fostering a supportive environment, to mitigate negative impacts of mass emigration (Japa).

Mr Gabriel Idahosa, LCCI President, said this during LCCI 2024 Secondary Schools Essay competition and prize giving ceremony held on Thursday in Lagos.

The event had the theme: “The Socio-Economic Impact of Mass Emigration, or JAPA, on the Nigerian Economy.”

Idahosa said that the scale and intensity of “Japa” in recent years posed a serious challenge with critical questions about its impact on the Nigerian economy that must be examined.

“What are the costs and benefits of this migration? How does it affect industries, human capital, social services, and, ultimately, the future we are building for the next generation?” he queried.

“Statistics reveal that between 2020 and 2023 alone, Nigeria experienced a staggering increase in emigration, particularly among young professionals and recent graduates.

“The World Bank estimated that over 900,000 Nigerians migrated abroad during this period, with top destinations being Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe.

“Several factors drive this trend, including the search for better employment, educational opportunities, improved healthcare, perceived quality of life abroad and safety,” he said.

Idahosa said that this outflow of talent, skills, and innovation had created gaps in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology.

He cited a Nigerian Medical Association report stating that between 2022 and 2023, over 10,000 Nigerian doctors left the country.

This, he said, had led to a national doctor-patient ratio far below the World Health Organisation’s recommendation, further straining Nigeria’s already fragile healthcare system.

“Many Nigerian teachers, academics, and researchers opt for roles abroad, where compensation and career development opportunities are more favorable.

“Leading tech firms have reported losing software engineers and data scientists, challenging Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s digital transformation,” he said.

In spite of these challenges, Idahosa emphasised the potential benefits from Nigeria’s diaspora.

“On the one hand, remittances from Nigerians abroad reached a record $24 billion in 2023, providing critical support for millions of households.

“Beyond remittances, returning professionals often bring global networks, skills, and investments that contribute to job creation and innovation,” the LCCI president said.

To address the push factors driving emigration, Idahosa called for investments in job creation, fair compensation, and skill development.

He urged government and private sector partnerships to create competitive opportunities that motivate young professionals to remain in the country.

On the essay competition, he commended the students for taking time to examine pertinent questions about the socio-economic implications of mass migration thoughtfully.

“Today, you not only showcase your understanding of a complex issue but also contribute to the broader national dialogue on Nigeria’s socio-economic trajectory,” he said.

Princess Layo Bakare-Okeowo, Chairperson, Board of BEST Unit, LCCI, said that the economic impact of the “japa syndrome”, was a pressing issue that affected businesses, communities, and the nation at large.

She said that the essay competition was part of the Chamber’s education initiative, aimed at promoting and encouraging intellectual competition amongst secondary school students.

“By providing this veritable platform, we are not only fostering meaningful dialogue but also empowering young people to engage in the conversation and share their unique perspectives, insights, and solutions.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to addressing critical challenges and shaping a sustainable future for our economy,” she said.