Pastor Dolapo Lawal has warned Nigerians considering relocation that many of their compatriots working overseas are effectively trapped in what he calls “modern-day slavery.”
Speaking on the pressures of migration, the cleric explained that many Nigerians take on caregiving and other demanding jobs abroad simply to survive, rather than to accumulate wealth.
Lawal challenged the notion that moving abroad is a shortcut to riches, noting that it is often easier to become a billionaire in Nigeria than overseas. He criticized those who sell properties in Nigeria to rent homes abroad without proper planning or direction.
“Most Nigerians abroad are there to survive, not to thrive,” Lawal said. “They go there to do care jobs, not to become wealthy. Some even sold their properties to rent abroad—are you thinking? What are you doing?”
He advised citizens to seek divine guidance and connections, rather than pursuing migration blindly. According to Lawal, the inability of many Nigerians abroad to send money home stems from limited financial capacity, not selfishness.
“All the billionaires I’ve met are in Nigeria. This is the easiest place to achieve wealth,” he added. “Instead of chasing migration, focus on finding the right opportunities through God.”
