The economic situation in Nigeria has inflicted hardship on its citizens.
Nigeria’s population of over 210 million people, the continent’s largest, is also among the hungriest in the world and its government is struggling to create jobs.
The current economic hardship under President Bola Tinubu, who promised “renewed hope” when he was sworn into office in May 2023, is blamed on surging inflation that is at a 28-year high and the government’s economic policies that have pushed the local currency to fall against the dollar.
The end of subsidy regime by his administration has caused petrol price to surge from previous price of N185 before his swearing in.
Tinubu’s economic reforms have had a knock-on effect on the price of just about everything else, analysts say, pointing especially to the absence of adequate and timely support programs.
Almost every Nigerian is thinking about how to leave the country to search for greener pastures but everyone knows that a lot of money is needed.
DAILY GIST brings you alternative ways to leave Nigeria if you don’t have a lot of money.
1. Get a scholarship
Nigerians can apply for scholarships from countries that often cover expenses like tuition and housing.
There are fully funded scholarships from the United States, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Australia like Fulbright (USA), DAAD (Germany), Erasmus Mundus (Europe), and Chevening Scholarship (UK).
Applying for scholarships isn’t easy, but you can do it. All you need is to gather supporting materials, such as recommendation letters and transcripts.
2. Apply for job opportunities abroad
Some countries can grant visas to workers who meet the necessary qualifications to fill labour shortages.
Skilled workers can immigrate to Australia under the SkillSelect program or Canada under Express Entry, depending on their skills and job experience.
A work-sponsored visa comes with reduced financial costs and the chance to earn more than you could ever earn if you lived in Nigeria.
Use platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed to scout for jobs.
3. Marry someone who has relocated to abroad or a foreigner
Spread your dating net and don’t limit yourself to single people in Nigeria. Many single and eligible Nigerians have left the country; you can connect with them via social media, and who knows, you can kick it off and get married.
You can also get married to a foreign national so you can qualify for a spousal visa or even citizenship.
If you have family members living abroad, a family reunification visa would allow you to relocate.
Some countries also allow foreign nationals to apply for a fiancé(e) visa if they plan to marry a citizen of that country, which could lead to permanent residency.
4. Seek asylum
This option may be far-fetched, but it’s still a possibility.
You may be able to apply for asylum in some countries if you are being persecuted because of your race, religion, nationality, political beliefs, or affiliation with a social group.
People applying for asylum can get help from agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other human right agencies.
5. Religious missions
Some countries need more priests, reverend sisters, and other religious leaders.
If you are part of a recognised religious organisation, you might be able to migrate by participating in mission trips or religious work in foreign countries.
Be careful not to end up in a war-torn country and be worse off than you ever were in Nigeria
PULSENG
