Bwala: N60k Earner in Nigeria Better Off Than Japa Migrants

Daniel Bwala Claims N60,000 Earners in Nigeria Fare Better Than Those Who Japa’d Five Years Ago

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Policy Communications, has ignited a fierce online debate after suggesting that many Nigerians who moved abroad in pursuit of a better life are now in a tougher position than compatriots on modest salaries at home. The presidential aide made the remarks during an appearance on The Morayo Show, with clips of the interview circulating widely on social media as of Thursday, 9 July 2026.

Bwala Calls Conditions Facing Nigerian Migrants “Modern-Day Slavery”

Bwala argued that the long-held assumption that relocating overseas guarantees an improved standard of living no longer holds true for a large number of Nigerians. He pointed to those in countries like the United Kingdom who, despite holding degrees and professional certifications, end up in roles far below their qualifications — including strenuous work in care homes and warehouses. “As far as I am concerned, it is modern-day slavery,” he said.

He acknowledged that such workers may take home between £2,600 and £2,800 a month, but insisted that rent, transport, utilities, internet and food consume much of that income. By contrast, he claimed a Nigerian on N60,000 monthly can lean on a stronger social safety net. “That 60,000 Naira earner can still get support from family and friends, while many abroad have nobody to fall back on,” he stated.

Bwala also used the interview to defend the Tinubu administration’s social intervention record, citing a 50 per cent subsidy on dialysis in federal hospitals and free caesarean sections in public health facilities.

Remarks Reignite Nigeria’s Ongoing “Japa” Conversation

The comments quickly divided opinion online. Some agreed that life abroad carries heavy financial and emotional costs that are rarely discussed, while others dismissed the comparison as overly simplistic, arguing that surviving on N60,000 a month in Nigeria is unrealistic for most households.

The “japa” phenomenon — the mass relocation of Nigerians seeking opportunities overseas — has been one of the country’s most persistent national conversations in recent years, and statements from government figures on the subject routinely attract intense scrutiny. Bwala’s remarks have once again put the question of whether emigration truly delivers greener pastures back at the centre of public debate.

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With all manner of provocation, this man wouldn’t dare say such if he earns that amount (N60k). But because he earns roughly 6 figures, living off of taxpayers’ money and enjoys literally all Govt. benefits, he is completely out of touch with the common man economic reality.

— Hairy Boy🧑🏽⚡ (@onlyattaboy) View on X

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