BY CHRIS AGBEDO (PhD)
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Language, a living organism of culture, evolves in response to the shifting realities of society. This truth is vividly captured in the recent inclusion of the Nigerian slang japa in the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), solidifying its place in global discourse. Once a colloquial term in Yoruba meaning “to run swiftly” or “escape,” japa has transcended its literal roots to become a powerful metaphor for the mass exodus of Nigerians seeking greener pastures abroad.
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The rise of japa in global lexicons underscores the intimate relationship between language and societal dynamics. It reflects a collective experience of frustration with systemic failures, a yearning for opportunities, and the realities of a globalized world. But beyond its linguistic triumph, japa forces a reckoning with the socio-political undercurrents that gave it prominence.
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Japa has emerged as a shorthand for the “brain drain” phenomenon. For decades, Nigerians, particularly the youth and professionals, have left the country in droves, fleeing economic instability, poor governance, insecurity, and lack of opportunities. The term encapsulates a widespread aspiration for survival and success in foreign lands, where meritocracy and better living conditions beckon. This linguistic evolution mirrors societal change. Just as words like pidgin, chop, and wahala have been absorbed into global English, japa now tells the story of a restless generation determined to rewrite their destinies, even if it means leaving home.
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The inclusion of japa in the OED is not merely a linguistic milestone but a cultural barometer. It signifies recognition of Nigeria’s profound contributions to global culture, even amidst national challenges. Yet, it also raises questions about why the term exists in the first place. Why has the act of escaping hardship become so normalized that it now warrants global recognition? Language, after all, reflects not only how we communicate but also how we live and perceive the world. The prominence of japa in Nigeria’s sociolinguistic landscape is a sobering reminder of the systemic issues driving this exodus—issues that must be confronted to stem the tide of brain drain.
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Nonetheless. rather than viewing japa solely as a national failure, it can also be seen as an opportunity for reinvention. Countries like India and the Philippines have embraced migration as a strategic advantage, benefiting from remittances and Diaspora-driven development. Nigeria can do the same by fostering stronger ties with its Diaspora, tapping into their knowledge, networks, and resources to drive growth at home. Moreover, addressing the root causes of japa—poor governance, unemployment, insecurity—must remain a national priority. When people can thrive at home, migration becomes a choice, not a necessity. This balance is crucial for transforming japa from a symptom of failure into a tool for national progress.
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As japa enters the global lexicon, it carries with it the weight of a nation’s hopes, frustrations, and aspirations. It tells a story of resilience in the face of adversity and the unyielding quest for better opportunities. But it also challenges Nigeria to evolve alongside its language, addressing the societal dynamics that gave rise to japa in the first place. Language evolves to capture the essence of human experiences, and japa is a testament to that evolution. As Nigerians continue to enrich the world with their culture, creativity, and innovation, it is imperative to ensure that their contributions are not born out of compulsion but out of choice. In this way, japa can become not just a word but a rallying cry for meaningful change and renewal.
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AGBEDO, a Professor of Sociolinguistics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka & Public Affairs Analyst, writes from Nsukka
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