167. MUST I DO ODD JOBS BECAUSE OF JAPA? Jack’s Japa Empowerment - Diaspora Handbook - Nijaa Diaspora Empowerment - Jack Lookman

167. MUST I DO ODD JOBS BECAUSE OF JAPA?

Odd jobs are one of the first realities that many Nigerians encounter while abroad. Cleaning, security, caregiving, delivery, warehouse shifts—you name it. Many people wonder if they truly need to work these occupations in order to survive. The honest answer is that it depends. Odd occupations are not a curse, but they are frequently the beginning point. They provide you with immediate cash, stability, and, in some cases, a path to greater opportunity.

The truth is that the system does not care about your background when you arrive. Whether you were a manager, lecturer, or business owner in Nigeria, the first opportunity to work abroad may have been unusual. The dignity of employment is true here, and no job is deemed shameful. Odd jobs don’t define your worth; they simply pay the bills while you strategise. Many successful Nigerians abroad once did them on their way up.

However, odd jobs should not become a permanent prison. If you have skills, education, or ambition, you must plan an exit strategy. Use the income from odd jobs to fund further training, certifications, or small businesses. The system rewards growth. If you stay stuck in odd jobs forever, it is usually because you didn’t plan beyond survival.

Odd jobs also teach valuable lessons—discipline, humility, and resilience. They give you firsthand experience of how hard people work, to keep society running. That mindset becomes an asset when you transition into bigger roles. The danger is when pride prevents Nigerians from starting, or when comfort keeps them from leaving. Both extremes can delay progress.

But on another note, if you planned diligently before your sojourn, you may be able to escape the odd jobs. You might come with adequate cash, you may do business collaborations, you may be head hunted, you may be coached and mentored, etc.

Though only the minority may fit into this demographic, it’s very doable, to avoid odd jobs when you japa.

And don’t forget Digital Entrepreneurs who could easily settle into different geographical locations, doing what they do best.