Special adviser to the president on media and policy communications, Daniel Bwala has said that many Nigerians who moved abroad in search of greener pastures are facing harsh economic realities despite holding advanced degrees.
Speaking on The Morayo Show, Bwala said some Nigerians in the United Kingdom are working jobs that do not match their educational qualifications.
“Some of you in Nigeria who think you are suffering, you’re better off than your colleagues that japa five years ago,” Bwala said.
He described the situation as a form of modern-day exploitation, noting that many degree holders end up working in care homes and warehouses.
“As far as I am concerned, it is modern-day slavery,” he stated.
According to him, although workers may earn about £2,600 to £2,800 monthly, most of the income is spent on rent, utilities, internet, transportation, and feeding, leaving little savings.
“At the end of the day, what you are left with is not much. So you are forced to do two or three jobs,” he said.
Bwala argued that a Nigerian earning ₦60,000 locally could still benefit from family support and lower living costs compared to someone struggling abroad.
“That ₦60,000 earner can still get support from family and friends, while many abroad have nobody to fall back on,” he added.
He also defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s social intervention policies, citing the 50 percent subsidy on dialysis in federal hospitals and the provision of free cesarean sections in public health facilities.
“President Bola Tinubu introduced 50 percent subsidy on dialysis in federal hospitals, and cesarean section has been made free in public hospitals,” Bwala said.
He added that the administration hopes to expand healthcare support to more services and prescription drugs as government resources improve.
