Nigerian businessman Keji Giwa has ignited debate online following controversial comments he made about Nigerians relocating overseas under the popular “Japa” wave.
Speaking on the TalkwithRuth podcast, Giwa expressed frustration over the steady departure of skilled employees from his companies.
According to him, several of his most competent staff members have moved abroad after receiving training and career development within his organisation.
“A lot of my employees have relocated,” he said, explaining that many of those who left were among his strongest performers. While the podcast host suggested that the former employees may have taken advantage of him, Giwa disagreed, acknowledging that they were highly capable professionals who contributed significantly before leaving.
He questioned the long-term impact of the migration trend on Nigerian businesses, asking what remains for employers after investing heavily in staff training only to see them move abroad.
Giwa also argued that tighter immigration rules in countries such as the United Kingdom and Canada have indirectly helped Nigerian companies retain talent.
According to him, without stricter visa requirements, even more skilled workers would have exited the country.
In remarks that have since drawn strong reactions, the billionaire said he prays for visa rejections and deportations so that skilled Nigerians can return home.
He stated that he hopes foreign authorities decline visa extensions and send professionals back to Nigeria, adding that he needs their expertise to sustain his various business interests.
He further revealed that he once privately wished for a former employee’s UK visa application to be unsuccessful so he could re-engage her locally.
When asked whether he would be willing to match international pay standards if such workers returned, Giwa responded that income inequality in Nigeria enables employers like him to offer comparatively lower wages.
His comments have triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians divided over the economic realities driving migration and the responsibilities of employers in retaining skilled labour.
Read Also: Japa: School owner relocated abroad with student’s WAEC, NECO fees (Video)
