Nigerian actor Wale Ojo has criticised the ‘japa’ culture among Nigerians, calling it embarrassing.
Ojo discussed his aspirations for Nigeria in an interview with ThisDay, reiterating that even after living outside for a long time, he still has a deep affection for the nation.
“I have many aspirations. It would have been easy for me to stay abroad in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, or even Russia, and I would have been fine there. But I love Nigeria, and I always will,” he stated.
Ojo expressed his disapproval of the ‘japa’ trend, where Nigerians, including professionals like doctors, seek opportunities overseas.
He considers this mindset regrettable and degrading, pointing out that Nigerians are praised internationally for their inventiveness.
He stressed his commitment to being part of the solution to Nigeria’s problems.
“I have a lot of visions for Nigeria. I want to see a country where people don’t feel the need to ‘japa’. When I come home, despite the challenges, I aim to be part of the solution. The government should engage with the creative industry and people like us who have a vision for the country. We don’t just follow the crowd,” Ojo explained.
Recall that, Reno Omokri has praised Nollywood actor Wale Ojo for his outstanding performance at the 10th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), which took place in Lagos on Saturday.
For his role as the lead actor in the Nigerian drama film Breath of Life, Wale Ojo took home the Best Lead Actor award.
To win the prize, Ojo defeated Richard Mofe Damijo (The Black Book), Adedimeji Lateef (Jagun Jagun – The Warrior), Gideon Okeke (Egun), Marc Zinga (Omen), Stan Nze (Afamefuna), and Gabriel Afolayan (This is Lagos).
Reacting, Omokri said no one deserve the award more than Ojo, describing him as “actor par excellence.”
