Why Japa Isn’t Always the Answer - Helen Paul

Nigerian comedian Helen Paul has herself japa-ed and is now based majorly in the United States of America. However, during a new interview with The Sun, Helen still has some words of advice for people seeking to japa, and explains why japaing isn't always the answer, as well as opening up about some differences she has experienced between living in Nigeria and now living in America. Here is what Helen Paul had to say.

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During the interview, Helen Paul was asked "What are your thoughts on the ‘Japa syndrome’ and its implications for Nigeria’s future?" to which she said:

HELEN PAUL: It’s a free world. Everybody deserves to be happy, and you have the right to be where your happiness is. The irony of this is that it’s not all Nigerians who ‘Japa’ that are doing better. It’s about knowing your purpose and what works for you. Irrespective of that, I will implore our leaders in Nigeria to do the right things; provide basic amenities and make life easier for the people. Nigeria is a country after God’s heart, and I’m optimistic that there will be light at the end of the tunnel.

Then, she was asked "How has your experience in the US shaped your perspective on Nigerian culture and values?" to which she responded:

HELEN PAUL: While growing up as a kid, I have always believed that Nigeria has the best culture and values, and to be honest, that opinion has not changed. Nigeria boasts of the best cultural values in the world. Nigerian culture is quite unique and accommodating. Take the Yoruba culture as a case study -it exhibits humility, respect and tolerance, particularly for elders. No matter how successful a Yoruba son might be, he would still prostrate for his elders or bow for people believed to be older than him. The Benin culture is quite similar and unique; there’s utmost respect for elders and cultural institutions. It’s in our DNA as Nigerians. But my experience in the US has further convinced me not to judge other people, even though their cultural beliefs and ways of doing things are different from yours. Just be flexible, identify and embrace what works for you and you will be at peace.

Finally, Helen was asked "In what ways do you find life in the US different from life in Nigeria, particularly regarding opportunities for women?" to which she said:

HELEN PAUL: There are opportunities for women in both countries. Perhaps what is different is the fact that the gender equality policy works here better than Nigeria. So technically, the women here have an edge.

But like I said earlier, it all comes down to finding your purpose and taking decisive steps to achieve your goals. There are many women who didn’t leave the shores of Nigeria before becoming legitimately successful. On the other hand, there are also women who didn’t reach their potential until they relocated, so it’s relative. In as much as there are opportunities in the US, you may not see them if you don’t know what you’re doing. The womenfolk is a gender specially created by God with the power to open doors, irrespective of your geographical location. It’s now left to you how you want to put the power into use; either positively or negatively.

What do you think about what Helen Paul had to say? Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment either below or on my Jide Okonjo Facebook post.

That's All.

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