Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism for the Government of Alberta in Canada, Akolisa Ufodike, has identified the term “Japa” as part of Nigeria’s national lexicon, capturing the dreams and aspirations of many Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
The Nigerian-Canadian minister said this at an event organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) to commemorate National Diaspora Day with the theme ‘Japa Phenomena and Its Implications for National Development,’ held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa.
He said: “As someone with Nigerian heritage, I feel a profound connection to this topic. The term ‘JAPA’ has become a part of our national lexicon, capturing the dreams and aspirations of many Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
“On a personal note, I remember the stories of friends and family who have embarked on such quests. Their journeys are filled with both challenges and triumphs, embodying the resilience and determination that define our people.”
Acknowledging the enduring, positive impact of the Nigerian community’s efforts to promote and support cross-cultural sharing in Canada, Ufodike stressed the need for both countries to build bridges between nations and create lasting impacts that resonate for generations to come.
He urged the federal government to leverage the skills and experiences of Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute to international development.
According to Ufodike, strengthening ties between Nigeria and Canada can foster mutual growth and development as both countries explore opportunities for mutual benefit.
Noting that Nigeria’s diaspora community has enriched the social, economic, and cultural fabric of societies worldwide, he maintained that the country’s stories of success serve as beacons of inspiration, showcasing the boundless potential that lies within every citizen of the country.
He stated: “From pioneering advancements in technology and medicine to excelling in business, sports, and the arts, Nigerians have consistently demonstrated resilience, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence wherever they live around the world.
“I see this day-to-day, even as I live and work on the other side of the globe. Alberta is home to thousands of Canadians of Nigerian descent, who are vital contributors to the province of Alberta. As a proud Nigerian-Canadian, I appreciate the positive example that our community sets.”
According to the Minister, the Government of Alberta is committed to ensuring that Alberta continues to foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all, adding: “Our goal is a province where everyone feels they belong and where one’s culture, language, and religion are valued and respected.
“Alberta’s government also recognizes the need to promote inclusion and highlight the importance of diversity.
“Albertans of Nigerian heritage have and continue to help drive our province’s future as respected leaders in their communities.
“In recognition of this, the Government of Alberta has declared the month of October as Nigerian Heritage Month in perpetuity.”
Speaking earlier, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said Nigeria has raked in about $99bn from diaspora remittances in the last five years.
She added that the contributions of the diaspora community to national development cannot be over-emphasized and urged the Federal Government to pay more attention to citizens in the diaspora.
She said: “Let me also state that the contributions of the diaspora community to national development cannot be over-emphasized.
“According to the World Bank statistics recently, Nigerians in the Diaspora have remitted over 99 billion US dollars into the system in the last five years. This is huge and highly commendable.
“So, this is a sector that we need to pay more attention to. We haven’t paid attention to it. We need to do a lot more. So we have to tap into the enormous resources we have with the diaspora. We are still scratching the surface. And that’s what I will say.”
