Osinbajo Urges Nigerian Diaspora to See ‘Japa’ as Platform for Impact, Not Escape

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on Nigerians in the diaspora to rethink the popular “japa” trend the slang for relocating abroad as an avenue for contribution rather than an act of flight.

Speaking at the Africa Business Forum held at Columbia University, New York, on Saturday, Osinbajo stressed that migration should be approached as an opportunity to invest knowledge, skills, and resources back into Africa’s development. The event, hosted by the Africa Business Club in partnership with Nigerians in New York, gathered business leaders and innovators from across the continent and its diaspora.

“We spoke of the choice to japa or not, and how that choice becomes less about escape and more about contribution,” Osinbajo said, highlighting the potential of Nigerians abroad to shape Africa’s economic and social growth.

A notable moment occurred when business strategist Daniel Jaiyeoba invited Tolani Alli Osinbajo’s longtime photographer and content lead to speak during the panel, underscoring the forum’s emphasis on inclusive leadership and mentorship.

Attendees included Dupe Olusola, former CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc; Tayo Oviosu, Paga’s Founder and Group CEO; and entrepreneur Tochi Wigwe, reflecting growing diaspora engagement in Africa’s transformation.

“Leadership is about widening the stage so others can bring their gifts forward,” Osinbajo added, urging collective effort to build rather than wait for change.

He concluded by reaffirming that Africa’s greatest wealth lies not only in its resources or young population, but in the resolve of its people to uplift one another and work together toward prosperity.