Ibrahim Babangida, former military president of Nigeria, has offered his thoughts on two pressing issues facing the country: the potential for future military intervention in politics and the phenomenon of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad (Japa syndrome).
On the possibility of renewed military involvement, Babangida, who spoke in a Channels Television interview at the weekend, expressed optimism. He acknowledged the country’s history of military coups but voiced his belief that those days are over. Babangida said this shift to Nigerians’ growing desire for a stable democracy, was fueled by the achievements of Nigerians abroad.
“Such things happen,” he said about past coups, “but I believe it will not happen again because Nigerians are becoming more interested in becoming a truly democratic nation in Africa.”
Turning to the “Japa syndrome,” Babangida stressed the need for an environment that encourages Nigerians to choose their home country over emigration.
He says the key lies in creating conditions that inspire national pride and make working for Nigeria as attractive as seeking opportunities abroad.
“I think the environment should be created in such a way that people will be motivated to work for the country,” he stated, highlighting the success of Nigerians in various fields around the world.
