Impact of Social Media in Sensitising Nigerian Youths on the Implications of the Trending ‘Japa’ (Mass Migration) Syndrome
Author(s): | Sonny O Ekhorugue, Agboh Chioma Charity & Imuetinyan Oke |
Abstract: | Background: The "Japa" syndrome, referring to the mass migration of skilled and unskilled individuals from Africa, particularly Nigeria, to the overseas, particularly Europe and America in search of better opportunities, has become a pressing concern. Despite its potential benefits, this phenomenon poses significant socio-economic implications, including brain drain, labour shortages and disrupted social networks.
Objective: This study investigated the impact of social media in sensitising Nigerian youths on the implications of the trending ‘Japa’ (mass migration) syndrome. Method: The study employed a library research method, leveraging existing literature to investigate the impact of social media on Nigerian youths' perceptions of the 'Japa' syndrome. Results: Findings show that cultural, modernisation, and peer influences hinder the desired attitude and behaviour change for adherence to opportunities in Nigeria, despite exposure to social media ‘anti-japa’ campaigns. Conclusion: The study concludes that social media play important role in shaping public perceptions of the ‘japa’ syndrome. Responsible journalism and balanced reporting are essential in portraying the complexities of youth migration. Unique Contribution: This study offers new insights into the interplay of influences on media effects, informing policymakers, healthcare practitioners and communication experts. Key Recommendations: Key recommendations include comprehensive community-based policies and cohesive intervention programmes involving key stakeholders are necessary to address the ‘japa’ syndrome; social media literacy initiatives focused on the ‘japa’ trend can empower audiences to critically engage with social media contents; and diversifying narratives in media coverage can counter stereotypes and misrepresentations. |
Keywords: | Japa syndrome, media enlightenment, youth migration, brain drain, social media |
Issue | IJSSAR Volume 2, Issue 4, December 2024 |
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Copyright | Copyright © 2024 Sonny O Ekhorugue, Agboh Chioma Charity & Imuetinyan Oke ![]() This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. |
Journal Identifiers
eISSN: 3043-4459
pISSN: 3043-4467