Speaking on The Honest Bunch Podcast, Chimezie argued that Nigerians who leave the country often end up contributing more to the economies of their host nations than to their own. According to him, many who migrate face the harsh reality of starting from the bottom, often taking menial jobs to make ends meet.
“Our problem is right here. We keep helping people over there because we think the grass is greener on the other side. But it’s not,” Chimezie said. “I’ve travelled quite a bit, and I can tell you there are no more opportunities there. When you get there, you start from the bottom, sometimes even washing toilets just to survive.”
The highlife legend, popularly known for his Zigima sound and socially conscious lyrics, called on Nigerians to change their mindset and invest their energy in rebuilding the nation rather than seeking quick fixes abroad.
He further linked part of Nigeria’s developmental challenges to a lingering colonial mindset, which he said has shaped how people perceive education, religion, and self-worth.
“When the white people came, it affected our mentality and development,” he noted. “If we studied biology and mathematics with the same passion we use to read the Bible, our society would be far better.”
Chimezie’s comments come amid record levels of youth migration, as many Nigerians continue to seek better living standards, education, and employment opportunities overseas. His remarks add to a growing conversation among public figures encouraging citizens to look inward and channel their creativity and resilience toward national growth.