Youth enterprise advocate and 2025 Mandela Washington Fellow, Daniel Anazia, has urged the Nigerian government to address the country’s deep-rooted challenges before expecting loyalty or sacrifice from its citizens.

Speaking at the weekend in Asaba, Delta State, Anazia said the rising wave of youth emigration—popularly known as the Japa syndrome—is driven more by economic hardship, insecurity, and poor infrastructure than by a mere search for greener pastures.

“We young people hardly see a viable future in Nigeria. The system isn’t working in our interest, and the rising insecurity has further eroded our confidence. We are leaving not just for better jobs but for stability, dignity, and a sense of order,” he stated.

Anazia, who is also the founder of Sunbridge Consulting, said reversing the Japa trend requires creating an enabling environment for young people to thrive.

“Before we as a country begin talking about curbing mass exodus, the government must first demonstrate genuine commitment and willingness to make Nigeria work. Nigerians want to stay—but we need to see that staying is worth it,” he stressed.

He called for the creation of a Nigerian version of the “American Dream”—a system that rewards effort, supports enterprise, and offers citizens the opportunity to build their futures.

As part of immediate reforms, Anazia proposed cutting the salaries of elected officials at all levels and channelling the savings into the Bank of Industry and Agriculture to finance micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“This move would be a strong signal of leadership by example. Imagine what could happen if those funds financed small businesses and entrepreneurship,” he noted.

He further urged urgent investment in critical infrastructure that boosts productivity and innovation, identifying power supply, security, and internet access as top priorities.