A senior Nigerian lawyer based in Akure has reportedly closed down his law chamber and relocated to the United Kingdom, where he now works as a cleaner in a clothing store. This revelation, made by Ondo-based human rights lawyer Bolanle Cole on Sunday, November 24, 2024, has sparked widespread concern about the increasing trend of professionals leaving Nigeria for menial jobs abroad.
In his remarks, Bolanle Cole described the situation as alarming, emphasizing that skilled professionals, particularly in the legal field, are abandoning their established careers for uncertain futures overseas. “A very senior lawyer closed down his chamber here in Akure and relocated to the UK through the influence of his wife. He got to the UK through a study route and is currently working with Primark as a cleaner,” Cole disclosed.
The lawyer expressed his worries about the growing phenomenon, commonly referred to as “Japa” in Nigeria, where citizens seek greener pastures abroad due to economic challenges and dwindling opportunities at home. “Senior lawyers leaving Nigeria to become sales boys or security guards in the UK is worrisome,” he stated.
This trend reflects the broader issue of brain drain, where professionals, particularly in sectors like medicine, engineering, and law, leave Nigeria for countries with better infrastructure, security, and living conditions. While some achieve professional success in their new locations, others take up jobs far below their qualifications to make ends meet.
The situation has sparked debates on social media, with many blaming poor governance, economic instability, and a lack of professional opportunities in Nigeria. Others argue that those who relocate are seeking better opportunities for themselves and their families, even if it means starting afresh in unfamiliar territory.
This case underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to improve working conditions, create opportunities, and reduce the economic pressures that compel skilled professionals to leave the country. Without such changes, Nigeria risks losing more of its best minds to other nations, leaving gaps in critical sectors of its economy and society.
