Former BBNaija star and content creator Elozonam revealed how Nigeria’s “japa” syndrome—where individuals emigrate in search of better opportunities abroad—has impacted his personal relationships, especially with friends and family.

During a conversation on the Uncoloured Podcast, hosted by fellow BBNaija alum Venita, Elozonam candidly shared how his twin brother’s relocation has significantly altered their once-close dynamic.

“For my twin brother and I, being twins, we naturally used to argue a lot,” Elozonam said. “But after he left, there was nothing to fight about. Now I have to consciously reach out to him because there are days or weeks when I don’t hear from him. It’s frustrating, but I understand that everyone has to do what they need to survive and build a better life.”  

Elozonam reflected on how the japa wave has reshaped his social circle. He traced the trend back to 2018 when his former boss moved abroad with his family.

“That seemed to open the floodgates,” he said. “Since then, people have been leaving one after the other. It’s exhausting. You become hesitant to form new friendships because you don’t know if they’ll just up and leave tomorrow.” 

He expressed deep frustration about Nigeria’s deteriorating economy and infrastructure. He acknowledged that unemployment, insecurity, and poor living conditions push many Nigerians to seek better opportunities in other countries.

“Between 2018 and 2024, I’ve seen so many people leave. Nigeria isn’t improving, and everyone wants a better future. It’s hard to blame them, but it’s also hard for those of us left behind.”

Watch the interview below.

“…you’re now too wary of making new friends. Nigeria is not getting any better. We all know this”

Elozonam speaks about living in a different country from his twin brother and the downsides of japa. pic.twitter.com/zc7KMuLcdX

— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) December 18, 2024

Check out more updates here.

Nollywood actor Richard Mofe Damijo, popularly known as RMD, proudly celebrated his daughter’s university graduation with a heartfelt social media post.

On December 18, 2024, the actor shared the joyful news on Instagram, accompanied by pictures from his daughter Mena’s graduation ceremony at Towson University in Maryland, USA.

In the post, RMD expressed his immense pride and joy, capturing the milestone moment with a touching message that read,

“My baby girl. Efemena, Adufe, Morayo, Titilayomi, my forever star, today we celebrate you! The world is yours to conquer, and I couldn’t be prouder to call you my daughter. Congratulations, my love, you did it!”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Richard Mofe-Damijo RMD (@mofedamijo)

Fans and followers of the actor flocked to social media to join in the celebration. They flooded the comment sections with heartfelt congratulatory messages for RMD and his daughter, Mena.

Their words of admiration and joy highlighted the shared pride in her academic achievement.A follower commented,

“It must be cool to have Uncle RMD as Pops though. Congrats dear!!!!!!!!”

“Congratulationsssss🥳🥳❤️❤️❤️” said Nancy Isime.

Mena proudly marked her accomplishment by celebrating her bachelor’s degree in Psychology on her Instagram page. She shared the joyous milestone with her followers.

Her caption read, “Aren’t you PSYCHED I made it ?🎓B.S. Psychology.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by M. (@ohthatsmenaa)

In 2018, RMD proudly celebrated his son Tega’s high school graduation with a heartfelt post on social media.

The veteran actor shared a family photo from the graduation ceremony on Instagram. He expressed his admiration and showered praises on Tega, who shares his father’s charming looks.

“Today, I am again a proud and happy dad. I am giddy, not just because of your high school diploma but that you @tega_the_giant made everyone come out and I have all of you in one place at the same time, what more can a father ask for? Congratulations son. I love you. #prouddad #blessedandhighlyfavoredofGod,” he wrote in his caption.

Check out more updates here.

Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold ignited widespread discussions online after openly expressing his frustrations with life in Nigeria.

On December 17, 2024, he took to X to share his thoughts, urging Nigerians to safeguard their passions. He emphasised that the challenges of living in Nigeria often leave people feeling emotionally and mentally drained.

He wrote,

“There’s just something about this place that drains your excellence. Striving for it here feels futile, as the environment pulls you down until you become just like everyone else. Whatever you do, guard your passion fiercely, be firm and never settle for less.”

There’s just something about this place that drains your excellence. Striving for it here feels futile, as the environment pulls you down until you become just like everyone else.

— BIG FISH 🦈 (@adekunleGOLD) December 17, 2024

The post resonated deeply with many Nigerians, prompting them to flood Adekunle Gold’s comment section with their opinions.

They shared personal stories and experiences, highlighting the challenges of living and pursuing success in Nigeria.

Read some of the comments below:

“Nigeria on a daily basis”

“They’ll tell you , speak positive things about Nigeria What is positive that I can’t enjoy as a citizen too? Is this the way we get treated outside? The place we call home isn’t feeling like home at all? Nothing works.”

“Well it’s the place we tap initial energy and renew strength. Diamond doesn’t do get excited in the fire. But it’s at best and it’s excellent on a pretty lady’s ring finger. That’s how I like to see this place. It’s not the best place to be but we’re usually better for it.”

“If AG with all his influence and connections dey feel am, no hope for you wey be regular man on the streets. You go kpai”

“If you way don attain some stage day complain,Wetin make we way never even know Wetin we wan do for our life day say. Just doing THIS and THAT,hopping from THIS to THAT, talent too choke confuse on what to base on while trying to ride safe. Omoooo”

“Naija tough gan and draining. Good things are happening for those who can’t but to join them.”

“AG, you gat the money, every available resources to leave the country. This country no be life we dey live inside so. Even rich people dey complain.. wetin person like me wan come talk? Naija failed US”

Check out more entertainment updates here.