The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Policy Communications, Daniel Bwala, has said that some Nigerians earning modest incomes at home may be in a better financial position than those who relocated abroad in search of better opportunities several years ago.
Bwala made the remarks during an appearance on The Morayo Show, where he discussed the economic realities facing many Nigerians living overseas, particularly in the United Kingdom.
According to him, many Nigerians who migrated abroad with the hope of securing better-paying jobs are now working in roles that do not reflect their educational qualifications or professional experience.
“Some of you in Nigeria who think you are suffering, you’re better off than your colleagues that japa five years ago,” Bwala said.
He argued that numerous university graduates are employed in care homes, warehouses, and other low-skilled jobs despite holding advanced degrees. Describing the situation as a form of exploitation, Bwala stated:
“As far as I am concerned, it is modern-day slavery.”
Rising Cost of Living Abroad
Bwala explained that although some Nigerians in the United Kingdom reportedly earn between £2,600 and £2,800 per month, a significant portion of their salaries goes toward rent, transportation, utility bills, internet services, and food.
According to him, after meeting these expenses, many are left with limited disposable income and are often compelled to take on two or three jobs to meet their financial obligations.
“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 said.
Comparison With Nigerians Living at Home
The presidential aide further argued that a Nigerian earning ₦60,000 monthly could still enjoy certain advantages because of lower living costs and access to family support.
He noted that many Nigerians abroad lack the social support systems available to those living in the country.
“That ₦60,000 earner can still get support from family and friends, while many abroad have nobody to fall back on,” Bwala added.
His comments have generated widespread debate on social media, with many Nigerians expressing differing opinions about the realities of living abroad versus remaining in Nigeria. While some agreed that the high cost of living overseas has reduced disposable income, others argued that long-term opportunities and earning potential abroad remain significantly higher despite current economic pressures.
