Lasun Alagbe
Among top Nigerian entertainers who have relocated or ‘ja pa’ in recent years, the case of acclaimed actress and filmmaker, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, is unique.
Her relocation was not borne out of economic frustration as she had made fortunes before she moved alongside her family.
Several other Nigerian entertainers have also ja pa.
One of the earliest in contemporary times is Regina Askia, while musician and actor, Banky W, also recently announced a move abroad even if for education.
While some left out of frustration, screen goddess, Funke Akindele, has sworn never to ‘ja pa’.
She on Tuesday seized the occasion of Nigeria’s independence anniversary to count the blessings the country has showered on her, declaring loudly:
I pray that this country will be great, yes!
You say it’s cliche, we keep saying it will be great, oh yes it will be great because this is where I earn a living, this is where I’m called ‘gbogbo bigs girl’ this is where I make all the money to afford all the designer bags, designer cloth, this is where I make the money to empower a lot of people.
I just finished filming Everybody Loves Jenifa with over 175 crew members here in Nigeria and Ghana but majority from my country Nigeria.
Where did I make the money from? From Nigeria.
For me, I will not japa, I will remain in Nigeria, Nigeria go better.”
In the caption of the video, Funke Akindele also wrote:
“Happy Independence Day to my beloved Nigeria!
We’ve weathered storms, but our spirit remains unbroken.
I celebrate our resilience, creativity & hope.
Envisioning a Nigeria where dreams flourish, talents thrive & opportunities abound. Let’s believe in a brighter tomorrow! #NigeriaAt64.”
