The Dream, the Dilemma, and the Designer

On one hand, many Nigerians chase the dream—a life beyond the shores of the country, earning in foreign currency, and building the lifestyle they’ve always imagined.

The Jakpa dream is especially common in professions that demand physical presence—doctors, nurses, and other hands-on roles where remote work isn’t an option. This might suggest that designers, with the flexibility of remote work, are exempt from the Jakpa craze.

But the reality? Designers are not left out. Whether working remotely from home or abroad, many still dream of earning in dollars.

And it’s not hard to see why:

Global access: International gigs connect designers to global networks.
Tools & subscriptions: Most premium resources are priced in dollars.
Recognition: Working abroad often means bigger brands and more visibility.

But even with these advantages, some Nigerian designers are choosing to stay.

In today’s post, we speak with Andrew Ofobike, a seasoned designer with years of industry experience. His take on the Japa wave? He neither glorifies it nor dismisses it. To him, the key to a good life lies in human endeavour—in showing up and doing excellent work.

Here Are 6 Questions with Andrew Ofobike

What’s your take on the Japa syndrome?
I think it’s a good thing overall—maybe because I’m an eternal optimist, sha. I’ve had relationships change due to it. Close friends and family have left, and that hurts a little, but it’s fine. It’s always happened and will continue to happen.
Are Nigerians crazy for sticking it out?
I don’t think anyone is crazy. I believe people have strong reasons for doing what they do. Some will go, some will stay. I just believe one must lock in and do their best wherever they are—at home or abroad.
Would you earn better as a designer outside the country?
Most definitely, yes. The pay for designers is higher outside the country. But there’s also the cost and standard of living. You’ll earn more but also spend a lot more because of the cost of living in those economies.
Mention three things you love most about being in Nigeria.

My work. Lol. The shape and form of my work excite me. 2. Access to my family. A 25-minute drive and I can see my folks. I can easily link up with my siblings as well. The community I have access to is important. 3. The stage we are as a nation. I know this sounds crazy, but we’re still a developing nation with a lot of problems and opportunities. With a large population, the opportunities to create businesses that solve real problems are abundant.

Mention three things that could make you leave Nigeria.
For now, it has to be work. Not the promise of higher pay or anything, but if my work gets to the level where it makes more sense to operate from outside the country, then I’ll do that. Remember, I said work, not job.
Could higher pay lure you out of Nigeria?
A higher pay can be attractive, but at what cost? I’m currently doing a lot here, and I have to consider everything before making a decision. I won’t just up and leave because of the lure of more money—the whole opportunity has to make sense beyond the pay.
I personally believe I can make good money anywhere—home or abroad. I’ve seen people make it big by staying, and I’ve seen people make it big by leaving. At the end of the day, it’s more about the person and their understanding of the environment they operate in.

The Exodus Isn’t Just in Healthcare—Designers Are Leaving Too

Nigeria is now left with just 55,000 doctors, with 16,000 having emigrated in the last five years alone. While there are no official records for designers, the creative industry isn’t exempt from this brain drain. The numbers may be undocumented, but they are just as debilitating.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s SME sector is growing rapidly—now estimated at over 1.2 million businesses, with even more on the way. To fuel this growth, businesses need creatives who deeply understand Nigerian audiences—something you can’t always outsource or import.

Unlike Europe, where emigrating Nigerian doctors can easily plug into similar healthcare systems, design is more nuanced. The human heart may be universal, but audience insight is local.

But no matter where you are or what choice you make, one truth stands: know your stuff.