'₦60,000 Earner in Nigeria Better Off Than Many Nigerians Abroad’ — Daniel Bwala

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communications, has said many Nigerians who relocated abroad in search of greener pastures are struggling economically, and that those earning modest salaries at home may be in a better position.

Speaking on _The Morayo Show_, Bwala said the experience of Nigerians who emigrated, especially to the United Kingdom, is far from what they expected before leaving.

He noted that several graduates now work jobs outside their field of training, including in care homes and warehouses.

“Some of you in Nigeria who think you are suffering, you’re better off than your colleagues that japa five years ago,” Bwala said.

The presidential aide described the situation of many migrants as “modern-day slavery,” arguing that high living costs abroad wipe out most of their earnings despite being paid in foreign currency.

“At the end of the day, what you are left with is not much. So you are forced to do two or three jobs,” he stated. 

According to him, many Nigerians abroad earn between £2,600 and £2,800 monthly, but spend a large portion on rent, utilities, internet, transportation and food.

Bwala also said Nigerians earning lower incomes at home often have stronger social support.

“That ₦60,000 earner can still get support from family and friends, while many abroad have nobody to fall back on,” he added.

The comments come amid continued debate over the “japa” wave, with thousands of Nigerians relocating yearly in search of better economic opportunities.