Nigerian Afrobeats star Skales has generated heated conversations online after advising young Nigerians to make relocating abroad their main goal.
The singer, born Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, shared the controversial opinion on his X handle, where he suggested that leaving Nigeria could offer young people better chances of survival, security, and personal success.
“As a young Nigerian, your biggest dream should be to leave Nigeria so you can survive and actually achieve your dream by at least staying alive,” he wrote.
His statement quickly sparked widespread reactions, with many social media users disagreeing with his position and accusing him of promoting brain drain rather than encouraging Nigerians to work toward improving the country.
Several commenters argued that emigrating abroad does not automatically guarantee a better life, pointing to issues such as racism, discrimination, loneliness, and economic struggles faced by many Africans living overseas.
Others criticised the singer for speaking negatively about Nigeria despite achieving fame and financial success through the support of Nigerians.
One user, identified as JohnBullaSings, wrote, “This your advice no gel. Just because it worked for you doesn’t mean it’s for everyone.
“What’s even the mentality of making your biggest dream leaving Nigeria? Are you helping to solve the problem or are you adding to it?”
Another commenter, Sally, questioned the assumption that foreign countries automatically provide safety and better opportunities.
“Lol, so migrating to white man’s land where your first crime is your skin colour guarantees your security?? Abi another African country you wan go achieve your dreams?? 😂 Omoooo 😭 Y’all act like Nigeria is the problem meanwhile Nigerians are the problem! Nigeria is just a place on the map,” she wrote.
A user identified as Okoyemekun also criticised the singer, saying, “I will never understand how people whom Nigeria gave a head start over their fellow citizens in life suddenly start talking down on the country.”
Another commenter, Ethealdiadi, insisted that leaving the country should not be the ultimate goal for every Nigerian.
“My dream is not to leave Nigeria.
“Even if I leave, I’m sure coming back. If we all ‘dream to leave,’ who remains? Land of richness in all ramifications and we are fleeing? Go and come back to build. It will take time, but the work has to be done,” the user wrote.
The debate reflects ongoing conversations among Nigerian youths over economic hardship, insecurity, and the growing trend of migration popularly referred to as “Japa.”
