Renowned Nigerian actor and filmmaker Ugezu J. Ugezu has issued a sobering warning to Nigerians contemplating emigration in pursuit of better opportunities abroad—a phenomenon widely known as “Japa.”
In a recent Instagram post, Ugezu shared the true story of a Nigerian medical doctor who sold off his clinic and relocated to the United States, driven by the promise of a better life. However, the reality turned out to be far from what he had envisioned. According to Ugezu, the once-thriving doctor now works as a butcher in a meat shop, struggling to survive and avoiding contact with fellow Nigerians out of shame.
“In the name of JAPA, a practicing medical doctor in Nigeria sold his clinic and relocated to the US. Finally, he is now in a US city. Guess what? He now works as a butcher in a meat shop, hiding from Nigerians to avoid being noticed. FOR HOW LONG? A lot of things are not really the way they appear. BE GUIDED,” Ugezu wrote.
His post quickly sparked a wave of mixed reactions, igniting a debate about the risks and realities of life abroad.
Nigerians React with Mixed Feelings
On Instagram, users offered diverse perspectives. One user, @gabrieljerry3644, questioned:
“The question is how much is he making in Nigeria as a doctor? And how much is he making as a butcher in the US?”
Another user, @ikenna_donald_ekwuibe, emphasized financial benefits:
“He can be getting twice of what he was getting in Nigeria as a medical doctor. Las las na the money wey matter…”
Highlighting safety concerns, @olanrewajuzion7 wrote:
“At least he can travel from state to state without the fear of being kidnapped or unalived by bandits.”
On the flip side, @black__choco77 shared a regretful take:
“This is why you remain my favorite actor. And it’s a fact. If I had known, I wouldn’t have even left Naija. A lot of anxiety and depression…”
A Growing National Dialogue
Ugezu’s story contributes to the ongoing national conversation about the Japa trend, as thousands of Nigerians seek to escape insecurity, unemployment, and economic instability. While many find success and stability overseas, others face unforeseen challenges that complicate the dream.
As the trend shows no sign of slowing down, public figures like Ugezu are urging Nigerians to weigh their options carefully, reminding them that not all opportunities abroad are as glamorous as they seem.
