My name is David Ijeh (I.J.E.H.). I studied medicine at the University of Ibadan. Concerned about the deplorable state of medical healthcare in Nigeria, I decided to leave the country, a process known as “JAPA.” I relocated to the United States with my pregnant wife, and we faced numerous challenges initially. We had to stay with a friend in New York, and later moved to Atlanta before I began my residency program in psychiatry at Howard University Hospital in DC in 1992. I am grateful to Nigeria for providing me with almost free medical education.
As a psychiatrist and pastor, I have been able to support widows and orphans and adopt some children. Although security concerns in Nigeria have limited my ability to contribute more, I remain hopeful about the country’s future. I believe that with new leadership, Nigeria can improve, and the brain power of Nigerians can be harnessed for progress.
When asked if I tried to fix the situation before leaving, I replied that the issues were not fixable, and the emphasis was on traveling abroad for medical treatment rather than improving healthcare in Nigeria. However, I still have hope for the country’s future, and I believe that something will happen to improve things. I encourage people to network and support each other, as the church has been a refuge center and haven for many.
To those considering JAPA, I advise preparing for challenges and being tenacious. Although America has its challenges, it is not heaven, and I encourage people to look inward and make the best of their situations before considering relocation. As a pastor, I believe in the power of support systems and encouraging one another.
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