During its peak, from 2020 to mid-2023, the cost of relocating via the study route—covering visa fees, tuition, and other expenses—ranged between ₦10 million and ₦15 million. Many aspiring migrants financed this through family support, asset sales, or loans. At the time, "Japa" wasn’t just a plan; it was the plan for most young Nigerians. Organizations across sectors, from public to private, faced high turnover rates as employees sought greener pastures.

But the fervor around Japa has since waned, and several factors are responsible for the decline:

1. Rising Costs

President Tinubu's decision to float the naira drastically devalued Nigeria's currency, causing the cost of relocating to skyrocket. Today, migrating abroad via the study route requires close to ₦40 million—a staggering figure out of reach for most.

2. Stricter Immigration Policies

Countries like the UK and Canada have tightened their immigration requirements, increasing tuition fees and introducing measures that make migration more challenging. This has further burdened potential migrants, making the Japa route less accessible.

3. Harsh Realities Abroad

For many who successfully Japa'd, the grass hasn’t been as green as expected. Stories of long working hours, exorbitant rents, and high living expenses have become common. The dream of a better life often turns into a struggle to make ends meet. As a result, some Nigerians have "Japada"—returned home—after facing unforeseen hardships.

A Diminished Appeal

While migration remains a dream for some, the allure of Japa has significantly faded. The once-ubiquitous trend now feels more like a cautionary tale. The high costs, restrictive policies, and challenging realities abroad have made many reconsider their options. Although Nigerians are still relocating, the rate has drastically declined.

Japa may no longer dominate conversations, but it remains a reminder of the socio-economic pressures pushing people to seek opportunities far from home—and the challenges they face when they get there.