The chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of Nigerians who have relocated abroad only to experience regret and severe depression due to unforeseen challenges.
In a social media post on Saturday, Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa disclosed that NiDCOM has been inundated with distress calls from Nigerians residing overseas, many of whom are struggling with financial instability, loneliness, and disappointment after migrating in search of better opportunities.
Her statement was made in response to a thought-provoking tweet by UK-based Nigerian lawyer Dele Olawale, who described the current immigration environment in the United Kingdom as extremely challenging and even “toxic” for many new migrants.
Olawale strongly cautioned Nigerians against rushing into relocation without proper planning and thorough evaluation of their options. He emphasized that while some individuals succeed abroad, many others face unexpected obstacles that lead to regret, emotional distress, and financial ruin.
According to Olawale, “The UK immigration atmosphere is becoming toxic. Things are becoming increasingly difficult. If you are doing well in your home country, think very well before you leave or sell everything to come over here.”
He went on to highlight the struggles of many Nigerian migrants, stating, “There are countless cases of depression, shattered dreams, broken homes, and stranded families. Many Nigerians abroad now face irreversible regret. Please, do not make life-changing decisions just because others are doing it. Think deeply before taking the leap, and always seek proper legal advice before leaving everything behind.”
Reacting to his statement, Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa reiterated the importance of careful decision-making before choosing to migrate. She noted that many Nigerians falsely assume that life abroad is always better, only to discover the harsh realities after relocating.
Quoting Olawale’s warning, she wrote, “I hope this message resonates. We @nidcom_gov have been bombarded with countless cases of regret and depression among Nigerians abroad.”
She also emphasized a crucial life lesson, saying, “The grass is not greener on the other side; it’s greener where you nurture it.”
Her comments come amid the ongoing “japa” wave—a mass migration trend driven by economic hardships, inflation, and the rising cost of living in Nigeria. Over the past few years, thousands of Nigerians have sought better opportunities in foreign countries, particularly the UK, Canada, and the US.
In 2024, Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa had previously warned that some Nigerians were relocating to countries with even worse economic and social conditions than Nigeria. She urged prospective migrants to conduct extensive research and avoid making impulsive decisions based on social media narratives.
She has since appealed to Nigerian bloggers and social media influencers to help educate people on the realities of migration. She urged them to spread awareness about the risks involved and to discourage reckless migration to countries with limited opportunities.
“Please, we appeal to bloggers and influencers. Help us inform Nigerians that some of the countries they are rushing to are worse than where they are leaving (Nigeria),” she pleaded.
As the debate on migration continues, NiDCOM continues to offer guidance and support to Nigerians abroad while encouraging those still at home to make well-informed decisions about their future.