The Japada Chronicles: Why I Returned to Nigeria for a Better Quality of Life

Hello, dear readers of NaijaGists.com,

Today’s post is special, not just because of the topic, but because it reflects a significant change in my life. You may have noticed a slight hiatus in our posts lately, and that’s because I’ve been going through what many of our compatriots are experiencing—a return home, from “Japa” to “Japada.”

For those not familiar with the terms, “Japa” is the act of leaving Nigeria for so-called ‘greener pastures’ abroad, while “Japada” refers to the return journey back home. After spending years in Canada, I’ve decided to join the ranks of the “Japada” movement. The aim of this post is to share the reasons behind this significant decision, primarily focusing on the desire for a better quality of life and education for my children.

The Canadian Dream: A Reality Check

Like many of you, I was drawn to the allure of life abroad. The promise of better opportunities, higher living standards, and a stable political climate can be quite enticing. However, what many people don’t tell you is that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. As a parent, I found the education system in Canada lacking in certain ways that were important to me. The culture, while diverse, didn’t offer the same communal bonds and extended family support that we have here in Nigeria.

The Reckoning: What Matters Most

Over the years, I began to ask myself, “What matters most in life?” After a lot of introspection, the answers were clear: Family, community, and a sense of belonging. All these, I realized, were back home in Nigeria. My children were growing up with a diluted sense of their rich heritage, and I felt it was time to correct course.

The Education Epiphany

Contrary to popular belief, Nigeria has some excellent educational institutions that offer world-class education, with a touch of cultural richness that is second to none. I want my children to grow up with a strong sense of identity, something that I believe Nigerian schools offer better than any foreign institution could.

Quality of Life: The Untold Story

Many people equate ‘quality of life’ with material things. However, after living abroad, I can tell you that quality of life means different things to different people. For me, it means being close to family, having a strong community, and giving my children the opportunity to know and appreciate their heritage. It’s something that no amount of money can buy and is the primary reason behind my decision to return home.

The Japada Movement: A Growing Trend

I am not alone in this experience. Many Nigerians in the diaspora are returning home for various reasons—some for career opportunities, others for family, and some for the sheer love of the homeland. It’s a trend that speaks to the resilience and optimism of the Nigerian people. It is a powerful counter-narrative to the “Japa” movement and a testament to the pull of the motherland.

Final Thoughts

To my fans and fellow Nigerians, the journey back home is filled with mixed emotions but is ultimately rewarding. If you’re contemplating making such a move, my advice is to weigh your options carefully. Consider what truly matters to you and remember, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side—it’s green where you water it.

Thank you for taking the time to read my Japada chronicles. I’m excited to continue serving you with fresh, engaging, and informative content right here from the heart of Nigeria.

NG is back in full force. My sweet home Naija, I love you forever!.

To my friends out there, if you like Japa, if you like Japada, do whatever pleases you but don’t forget to pray well before making your decision, remember, don’t follow the crowd.

Just ensure you secure your home, insecurity is an issue with Nigeria, if you remember years ago, God delivered me from an attack in my beautiful home in Nigeria, that was one of the factors that motivated me to leave in a hurry then.