Jigan Babaoja Praises America, Says Life In Nigeria Is Hard For The Disabled

Jigan Babaoja Praises Life Abroad: Goodbye Nigeria, Disabled Life Is Easier In the USA!

Nollywood actor Jigan Babaoja is currently living his best life in the United States, and he’s using his social media platform to highlight the stark differences in the quality of life for people with disabilities between Nigeria and the U.S. In a recent Instagram post, the Yoruba actor shared a heartfelt reflection on his experience abroad, accompanied by a video of himself comfortably using a motorized shopping cart—a scene that painted a vivid picture of the conveniences available to individuals with disabilities in America.

Jigan, known for his role in numerous Yoruba films, expressed immense gratitude for the positive treatment he’s been receiving in the United States. The video showed him navigating a large store in the motorized cart, a device that makes shopping easier for individuals with mobility challenges. With this visual, his message was both clear and profound: life, for him, is more comfortable outside Nigeria.

“So many reasons! So many thinking! So many checking!” he wrote, listing the multitude of thoughts running through his mind as he compared his experiences in both countries. His final sentiment echoed the emotions of someone who has found relief after a long struggle: “Life is more comfortable out here! Goodbye Nigeria.”

The post sparked a wave of responses from his followers, with many reacting to his candid reflection on life as a disabled person abroad. Fans and fellow celebrities alike poured into the comments section to share their thoughts, with reactions ranging from supportive to humorous.

Actress Esther Kalejaye was one of the first to comment, expressing her happiness for Jigan as she saw him enjoying the comfort and accessibility that the U.S. provides. Alesh Sanni and Lola Magret, two other Nollywood figures, added a touch of lightheartedness by dropping laughing emojis, perhaps highlighting the surprising contrast between Jigan’s new experience and what many in Nigeria might expect.

For Jigan, this move to the U.S. seems to have opened a door to a quality of life he hadn’t previously known. His experience of being able to navigate spaces freely and comfortably with assistance, such as the motorized cart, stood in stark contrast to what he had experienced back home in Nigeria, where such accommodations for disabled people are scarce, if not completely absent.

One commenter, with the handle Fortunate_damstrael_autos, aptly described Jigan’s experience as “VIP shopping,” pointing out the special treatment and accessibility the actor now enjoys. For many Nigerians, the sight of Jigan in the U.S., where accessibility for disabled people is embedded into everyday life, was eye-opening. Another follower, Mukadam_vado, echoed this sentiment, stating in pidgin English, “Omo, handicaps dey enjoy for Yankee o,” meaning, “Disabled people are really enjoying in America.” It was a stark contrast to what people are used to seeing in Nigeria, where public spaces and services are far less accommodating for individuals with disabilities.

Oba K Solo, another user, chimed in with a reflection that touched on the broader issue of how society treats people with disabilities. “See as oyinbo dey package aro. Olohun ku ise,” he wrote in Yoruba, translating to “Look at how the West packages disabilities; God bless their efforts.” This comment highlighted the perception that Western countries do a much better job of providing for their disabled populations, from infrastructure to social support.

Jigan’s post didn’t only spark admiration and approval; it also triggered some critical responses. One user, Adewale, wasn’t as congratulatory, choosing instead to focus on Jigan’s political choices. “But na you vote APC,” he pointed out, referencing the actor’s support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria. This comment suggested that perhaps Jigan, who had backed the ruling party, should have advocated for better conditions for disabled individuals in his home country instead of enjoying those provided by another.

The conversation in the comments revealed a variety of perspectives. While many were thrilled to see Jigan thriving in a more accessible environment, others couldn’t help but reflect on the state of affairs back home. The question of why Nigeria lags so far behind in providing for its disabled population was a sentiment that lingered beneath many of the comments.

For Jigan, this post wasn’t just about sharing his personal journey; it was a quiet, yet powerful critique of Nigeria’s failure to prioritize accessibility for people with disabilities. In the video, his newfound ease in moving through public spaces without hindrance served as a reminder of the lack of such accommodations in Nigeria. The contrast was undeniable—Jigan’s ability to enjoy basic conveniences, such as a motorized cart in a shopping center, was something that would be a rarity back home.

What this moment highlights is the deeper issue of how countries like Nigeria can work towards better inclusion for all their citizens, particularly those living with disabilities. While the West has made strides in ensuring public spaces, transportation, and even recreational areas are accessible to everyone, Nigeria still faces significant challenges in this regard. Public transportation is often inaccessible to those with mobility issues, and many buildings lack ramps, elevators, or even accessible bathrooms. The reality for many disabled individuals in Nigeria is one of daily struggle and hardship.

Jigan’s post may have been lighthearted in tone, but it raises serious questions about the future of accessibility in Nigeria. His experience in the U.S. serves as a testament to what is possible when a society values inclusivity and ensures that all its members, regardless of physical ability, can live comfortably.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time a Nigerian celebrity has used their platform to draw attention to societal issues. As a public figure, Jigan’s decision to share his experience speaks volumes. It reminds us that while fame can bring personal success, it can also provide an opportunity to spotlight important issues. For Jigan, this moment is more than just a celebration of newfound comfort—it’s a reflection on what life could and should be for disabled individuals in Nigeria.

As the conversation around disability rights and accessibility grows, Jigan’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done in Nigeria. His experience in the U.S. has shed light on how much easier life can be when societies prioritize the needs of all their citizens. The question now is whether Nigeria will rise to the challenge and make the necessary changes to ensure that individuals like Jigan can enjoy the same level of comfort at home as they do abroad.