Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has declared that she has no desire to leave Nigeria, describing the country as home and the place that shaped her identity, despite the challenges confronting many of its residents.
The actress made the statement during a panel discussion at “20+ Years in the Media: Real Talk with Kike @7,” where she spoke about opportunities in Nigeria and the importance of encouraging young people to pursue their ambitions.
Bello, who has previously lived and received training in the United States, said her experiences abroad had not diminished her attachment to Nigeria or her belief in the opportunities available in the country.
“America trained me, but Nigeria made me,” she said.
Her remarks offer a different perspective on the debate surrounding japa, the popular Nigerian expression for relocating abroad in search of improved economic prospects, career opportunities and living conditions.
‘This is home’
Explaining her position, Bello said she continued to see opportunities in Nigeria and had no desire to return to the United States to live.
“I pray I never get the opportunity, as they call it, to go back,” the actress said, acknowledging that she had previously lived abroad.
She added that the opportunities she had encountered in Nigeria reinforced her decision to remain in the country.
“This is home, this is where it is,” she said.
Her comments come against the backdrop of continuing conversations about migration among Nigerians, particularly young professionals seeking better-paying jobs, reliable public services, quality education and improved living standards overseas.
While many Nigerians view relocation as a means of expanding their prospects, Bello’s position highlights the possibility of building a career and finding professional fulfilment at home.
Her remarks, however, reflect her personal experience and outlook rather than a claim that the challenges associated with living and working in Nigeria have been resolved.
Actress acknowledges Nigeria’s challenges
Bello did not dismiss the difficulties confronting Nigerians. She acknowledged frustrations associated with electricity supply, education and healthcare, issues that continue to influence discussions about the country’s social and economic conditions.
Despite these concerns, she encouraged young people to examine their abilities, develop their skills and make productive use of the opportunities available to them.
“Look within yourself, what do you have to offer? What is in your hands?” she asked.
The actress urged young people to study, learn and demonstrate their capabilities, stressing that personal development and a commitment to one’s craft could help create opportunities.
Her message places emphasis on individual preparation and professional growth while recognising that wider conditions, including infrastructure and access to quality services, also shape people’s ability to succeed.
Authenticity and consistency in building a career
Reflecting on her longevity in the entertainment industry, Bello attributed part of her professional journey to authenticity and consistency.
She said remaining true to herself had been important to sustaining her career over the years.
“For me to be here for so many years, first of all, I have to be authentic to who I am,” she said.
The actress also encouraged young people to remain committed to their ambitions and develop the discipline required to make progress in their chosen fields.
She spoke about the role of faith in her life, urging young people to maintain their spiritual convictions while pursuing their goals.
Her advice combined professional development with personal values, presenting both as important elements of her approach to life and work.
A personal perspective on the ‘japa’ debate
The growing interest in emigration has made the decision to remain in Nigeria or seek opportunities abroad a recurring subject of public discussion.
For some, leaving the country offers access to better employment, education and public services. Others choose to remain because of family connections, professional opportunities, cultural ties or a desire to contribute to their communities.
Bello’s remarks place her firmly among those who continue to see value in building their lives and careers in Nigeria, even while acknowledging the country’s shortcomings.
Her position also raises a broader question about what would make staying in Nigeria a more attractive and sustainable choice for younger generations.
Greater access to reliable infrastructure, quality education, healthcare, decent employment and an environment that supports entrepreneurship would be central to that conversation.
For Bello, however, her decision is rooted in a personal conviction that Nigeria remains home and a place where meaningful opportunities can still be found.
Her message to young people was to recognise their abilities, invest in their development and remain committed to becoming the best they can be, wherever they choose to pursue their ambitions.