'Japa': The mass exodus of Nigeria's youth

Nearly 70 percent of Nigerians say they would move abroad if they had the chance, according to an Africa Polling Institute survey.
Nearly 70 percent of Nigerians say they would move abroad if they had the chance, according to an Africa Polling Institute survey. © Sam Ball / France 24

The term "japa" comes from the Yoruba word meaning to run or flee and, in recent years, has become something of a buzzword on the streets of cities such as Lagos as a growing number of often young, educated Nigerians look to move abroad to escape unemployment, inflation and low salaries. But this exodus is leaving the country facing a brain-drain, while some warn that those who leave may not find the life they are hoping for abroad.