The term “Japa,” a Yoruba word meaning “to flee” or “escape,” has become a national slogan, especially among young Nigerians eager to leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
For many, it represents hope for a brighter future—greener pastures with economic stability, security, and access to opportunities often scarce at home. Thousands of young Nigerians are leaving; doctors, engineers, tech professionals, even clergymen — the exodus continues.
But for the Christian, the decision to “Japa” raises deeper questions: Is it merely an escape from hardship, or could it be a divine calling? How do we discern between running from challenges and responding to God’s purpose for our lives?
The Bible is no stranger to stories of migration. From Abraham leaving Ur to Joseph’s journey to Egypt, and Daniel and others being taken to Babylon. But the movements in the Bible were not often about fleeing for personal gain, but part of God’s plan for His people; about trusting God’s leading into unknown territories for His glory. Abraham’s departure was a response to a divine call (Genesis 12:1-3). Joseph’s journey, though marked by trials, positioned him to fulfill God’s purpose (Genesis 50:20) and Daniel, with others were sent as divine agents to foreign lands.There were also cases of God restraining people from moving, like asking Isaac not to go down to Egypt, despite famine (Gen. 26:1ff) and Jeremiah remaining in a broken land to rebuild hope.
The “Japa” trend, however, can sometimes reflect an exodus mentality driven by fear, frustration, or despair. Economic hardship, insecurity, and systemic challenges in Nigeria push many to see emigration as the only path to survival. For the Christian, this mindset demands reflection: Are we running from difficulties God has called us to endure or transform, or are we being led by Him to new horizons for His mission?
As Christians, every decision—including whether to “Japa”—must be filtered through the lens of faith, purpose, and stewardship. Here are some faithful considerations:
- Seek God’s Guidance Through Prayer: Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord and lean not on our own understanding. Before making a life-altering decision like relocating abroad, Christians must seek God’s will through prayer and discernment. Is this move aligned with His purpose for your life? Are you running from a challenge He wants you to face or walking toward a mission He has prepared?
- Examine Your Motives: The desire for a better life isn’t inherently wrong, but motives matter. Are you seeking to “Japa” out of fear, envy, or societal pressure, or is it driven by a sense of purpose? A move rooted in selfishness or escapism may lead to discontent, even in “greener pastures.”
- Consider Your Calling at Home: Nigeria, despite its challenges, is a mission field ripe with opportunities for impact. Christians are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16), and sometimes that means staying to address injustice, serve the marginalized, or build God’s kingdom in difficult places. Ask yourself: Is God calling me to stay and be part of His redemptive work here?
- Embrace a Missional Mindset Abroad: If God leads you to “Japa,” view it as a calling, not an escape. Christians abroad have unique opportunities to shine Christ’s light in new contexts—whether through ethical work, community service, or sharing the gospel. The diaspora can also be a channel for resources and advocacy to uplift those back home.
The Christian response to “Japa”, therefore, is neither to blindly join the exodus nor to condemn those who leave. Instead, it is about discernment, rooted in faith and a commitment to God’s purpose. The question should not simply be “Should Christians leave or stay?” but rather “Lord, where do You want me to serve Your purpose?”
“Japa” is more than a trend; it’s a deeply personal decision that reflects our hopes, fears, and faith. For the Christian, it’s an opportunity to align with God’s will, whether that means staying to transform a struggling nation or going to fulfill a divine assignment abroad.
Let’s reject the exodus mentality of fear and embrace a missional mindset of faith, trusting that wherever we are, God is working through us for His glory.
To Japa without mission is just migration. To Japa with divine purpose is ministry.
To stay without vision is frustration. To stay with calling is Kingdom assignment.
If you go, do not lose your identity — remain a Kingdom ambassador.
If you stay, don’t just endure — engage, build, and shine.
VEN DR PRINCEWILL IREOBA,
CANON THEOLOGIAN, DIRECTOR OF THEOLOGICAL MATTERS, CHURCH OF NIGERIA
