Only good governance can prevent 'Japa' Syndrome among lecturers —ASUU president
Professor Osodeke stated that when the domestic situation is favorable and instills confidence in the system, many lecturers would choose to remain in the country rather than seek opportunities abroad.
Binye-lum 
The President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, emphasized that the departure of lecturers from Nigeria can only be averted through effective governance by the political class at all levels.
Professor Osodeke stated that when the domestic situation is favorable and instills confidence in the system, many lecturers would choose to remain in the country rather than seek opportunities abroad.
He highlighted the challenges faced by lecturers in Nigeria, citing low salaries as a significant concern. Some professors earn as little as N300,000 per month in Nigeria, whereas they can earn five to six thousand dollars abroad for the same job.
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Osodeke pointed out that the blame for this situation lies with the leadership that has allowed the educational system to deteriorate. He also proposed several measures the government could take to reverse the trend.
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One of the key measures he highlighted was the need for the government to honor and implement agreements reached with ASUU, as these agreements encompass the issues driving lecturers abroad.
He stressed that treating lecturers as casual workers, failing to pay their salaries promptly, or owing them for extended periods would erode their confidence in the system and drive them away.
Although Professor Osodeke didn't have precise statistics on the number of lecturers who had left or planned to leave in recent months, he asserted that a significant number had already sought opportunities abroad.
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When asked about his own intentions, Professor Osodeke clarified that he had no plans to leave and was committed to working with other concerned citizens to address the systemic issues in Nigeria.
He underscored that the nation possesses the necessary resources but lacks the political will, particularly among successive leaders, to rectify the situation.
Professor Osodeke emphasized that only good governance, backed by political will, can prevent the 'Japa' Syndrome among lecturers, ensuring that they remain and contribute to the development of the Nigerian educational system.
