The 2023 general election is set to begin in just a few hours, featuring both presidential and National Assembly elections. Eligible Nigerians from across the nation will head to the polls with their Permanent Voter Cards, ready to elect a new set of leaders who will govern the country at the federal executive and legislative levels for the next four years. Over the past three to five years, a significant number of Nigerians have left the country in search of better opportunities, a phenomenon popularly referred to as ‘japa.’ This trend, particularly among the youth, symbolizes a mass exodus of Nigerians seeking to escape a life of hardship and systemic uncertainty in pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families.
While many have admitted that life abroad is not without its challenges, all eyes are on today’s presidential election. The outcome could significantly influence whether the japa trend will continue to escalate or begin to decline, as Nigerians hope for positive changes that could benefit Africa’s most populous nation. In conversations with The on the eve of the elections, several Nigerians in the diaspora shared their reasons for leaving the country, which included the desire for a functioning system, basic infrastructure, security, and a reduction in corruption and unaccountability. In recent interviews, many have expressed their expectations for the upcoming presidential poll and how its results might affect their decisions regarding returning home.
Rela, a UK-based Nigerian artist, emphasized the importance of the election, stating, “The election tomorrow (Saturday) is an important one for us abroad. We are watching closely and also doing our part to ensure that our loved ones vote for a candidate that can truly make a difference.” She expressed hope that if safety and economic opportunities could be guaranteed, many would return home. “We truly hope that Nigerians would vote in someone who can stop the japa loop by making Nigeria more attractive for the youth to remain in the country,” she added. Rela noted that a positive shift in the country could encourage many to consider returning, as people are increasingly realizing the harsh realities of life abroad.
Another UK-based Nigerian, Mo, expressed hope that Nigerians would vote for competence rather than greed. “I hope Peter Obi wins the presidential seat, and I hope it all goes free and fair,” he said. While returning to Nigeria is not an immediate plan for him, he indicated that a significant improvement in the country could prompt him to consider moving back. Kenneth Osadalor, a Canadian citizen originally from Nigeria, shared his belief that Nigeria is the best country in the world and emphasized the need for a strong leader. “If we have 15 governors plus a President that is upright, righteous, and does the right thing, I’m certain that a lot of us will move back to Nigeria immediately,” he stated.
From Hong Kong, Nsikan expressed a lighthearted commitment to returning if Peter Obi wins, while also hoping for a fair election process. He acknowledged concerns about the integrity of the Independent National Electoral Commission but wished for a peaceful transition. Chioma Euguene shared her hopes for a peaceful and honest election, stating, “If we as a nation can get it right, I personally will return more often for visits, but completely moving back to Nigeria is a no for me.” She expressed a desire to see Nigeria become a stable country with leaders who value the lives of their citizens and provide essential services.
Ade, a Nigerian nurse in the UK, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I will visit more frequently if we make the right choice (today) and home is called home again.” This election marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s modern history, as there are no two major contenders for the presidency. Bola Tinubu, the 70-year-old candidate from the ruling All Progressives Congress, is running for the presidency for the first time after serving two terms as the governor of Lagos State. Atiku Abubakar, the 76-year-old candidate from the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, is running for the sixth time and has previously served as vice president and governor of Adamawa State. The Labour Party’s candidate, Peter Obi, 61, has emerged as a strong contender, appealing to the youth with his promises of transformation and a focus on production.
In just a few hours, a new President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will be elected. As the world watches this pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history and democracy, may the best candidate prevail, and may the election usher in a new era of hope for the nation’s youth.
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