Houston-based real estate developer Femi Rogers has said many Nigerians in diaspora are beginning to reconsider long-held assumptions about life and economic opportunities in Western countries. Speaking on the Frankly Business Podcast, Rogers argued that growing realities abroad are reshaping perceptions of migration, commonly referred to as “Japa,” while highlighting the need for reforms that encourage greater investment in Nigeria.
The migration of skilled and unskilled Nigerians to countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada has remained a major national conversation in recent years. Many Nigerians have sought opportunities abroad in search of improved living standards, economic stability, and career advancement.
However, concerns have also emerged regarding the challenges migrants face after relocation, including higher living costs, debt obligations, and the realities of adapting to new economic systems. Discussions around the experiences of Nigerians in diaspora have increasingly focused on balancing opportunities abroad with the need to strengthen economic prospects at home.
Speaking during the podcast, Rogers said misconceptions about life in Western countries have influenced migration decisions for many years.
“There is a lot of misconception by a lot of Nigerians about the Western world. They think the roads are filled with gold, things are easy, and that’s wrong. I think a lot of people are realising that now,” he said.
Rogers noted that some migrants struggle with credit systems and debt management, which can create financial challenges despite access to economic opportunities. He also emphasized the economic potential of Nigerians in diaspora, arguing that trust and transparency remain major barriers to investment in Nigeria.
“Diasporans have money. We’ve not tapped in. The reason why they are not investing is because they don’t trust. There’s no clarity in the way you do business; everything is shrouded in secrecy,” he said.
Referencing financial flows into the country, Rogers added, “As of 2025, diasporans remitted almost $23 billion; that’s a lot of money. Foreign direct investment was only about $900 million. So you can see the difference.”
He further compared real estate development opportunities in both countries, stating, “If I were developing in Nigeria, I would be looking for N1 billion cash to build one house. In the US, that my N1 billion cash will build five houses.” Rogers also disclosed that upon relocating to the United States, he initially worked as an Uber driver despite previously managing businesses with more than 100 employees in Nigeria.
The comments highlight the growing role of Nigerians in diaspora in supporting the national economy through remittances. They also underscore ongoing discussions about how regulatory reforms, transparency, and investor confidence could attract more diaspora capital into productive sectors. Analysts have often pointed to diaspora investment as a potential source of economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development if existing barriers are addressed.
Rogers maintained that Nigeria can attract greater participation from Nigerians in diaspora by improving the ease of doing business and strengthening investor confidence. His remarks add to ongoing debates about migration, economic opportunities, and the role of diaspora communities in national development.
