ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has advised Nigerians contemplating relocating abroad to reconsider their decision, emphasizing that while jobs may be available in developed countries, Nigeria remains a land of numerous opportunities.
Amaechi shared his perspective on discouraging the trend of Nigerians emigrating, known as ‘Japa,’ during an interview on the Arise Television programme titled ‘Perspectives.’
The ex-minister acknowledged that conventional nine-to-five jobs are more readily available in developed countries due to societal structures.
Still, he underscored the diverse range of opportunities within Nigeria, where an ordinary citizen could unexpectedly become a minister or governor.
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“I have always discouraged people who want to leave the country. I say 9-5 is the job you can get. You may not get the opportunity we get in Nigeria. You can just wake up one day and you are already a minister or a governor. It just happens.
“I don’t know how work in other countries operates. But, if you’re if you are looking for opportunities, please stay back in Nigeria but if you are looking for 9-5, safety and others, (you can migrate).”, Amaechi stated.
Expressing uncertainty about the work dynamics in other countries, Amaechi encouraged those seeking opportunities to remain in Nigeria, while individuals focused on nine-to-five jobs, safety, and other aspects might consider migration.
Having served two terms as a minister in Rivers States, Amaechi urged Nigerian youths to position themselves to seize the opportunities available in the country.
In a related context, President Bola Tinubu, during an official visit to Imo State, reassured Nigerians that the mass exodus of young professionals should not be a cause for concern.
Tinubu emphasized that more Nigerians would be trained to fill vacancies resulting from those relocating overseas.