Osinbajo urges diaspora to reframe ‘Japa’ as pathway to contribution, not escape

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has said that the decision to japa—a Nigerian slang term for emigration—should not be viewed merely as an act of escape, but rather as an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to Africa’s growth and development.

Osinbajo made this remark while speaking at the Africa Business Forum held on Saturday at Columbia University, hosted by the Africa Business Club in collaboration with Nigerians in New York. The former Vice President joined business strategist Daniel Jaiyeoba and other thought leaders in a wide-ranging discussion on improving the ease of doing business in Africa, harnessing the potential of the diaspora, and investing in the continent’s future.

“We spoke of the choice to japa or not, and of the many ways that choice becomes less about escape and more about contribution,” Osinbajo said.

A standout moment during the forum occurred when Jaiyeoba yielded the stage to Tolani Alli, Osinbajo’s longtime Special Assistant, Personal Photographer, and Head of Content and Production. Though moderators rarely step aside mid-conversation, the symbolic gesture reflected the forum’s deeper theme of inclusive leadership and empowerment.

“Leadership at its best is not about guarding the stage, but about widening it—ensuring others are empowered to step forward with their own gifts and voices,” Osinbajo noted.

The forum also drew notable Nigerians from the business and innovation sectors, including Dupe Olusola, former CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc; Tayo Oviosu, Founder and Group CEO of Paga; and Tochi Wigwe, entrepreneur and cultural advocate. Their presence, Osinbajo remarked, demonstrates the growing trend of diaspora engagement in shaping Africa’s future through mentorship, investment, and collaboration.

“To see Nigerians of influence and integrity return to spaces of learning and exchange is proof that our story is still being written,” he said. “Every chapter depends on our willingness to build, rather than to wait.”

In closing, Osinbajo reaffirmed that Africa’s most valuable resource lies not just in its natural wealth or youthful population, but in the collective commitment of its people to uplift one another, share opportunities, and work together toward a more prosperous future.