Who Wants to 'Japa', why and where? Dataset on Migration Decisions of Nigerian Youth

This dataset presents data collected through two surveys: the first among staff and students of 3 universities in Osun State, Nigeria; and the second among intending and serving Corps members as well as those who recently concluded their NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) service year. The first survey was administered in July 2024, and the second one between November 2024 and October 2025. The surveys were collected with the use of online questionnaires. The questionnaires are similar, the second survey containing a few additional questions than the first survey. The cleaned and merged dataset contains 835 observations.

The surveys sought to understand migration aspirations and perspectives, as well as correlates of migration decisions among Nigerian youth. The surveys were also intended to determine the relationship between developmental idealism theory and migration within the context of the gripping novel intensity, urgency and desperation by which Nigerian youth move to other countries - a phenomenon that has come to be known colloquially as 'japa'. The dataset captures self-reported migration intentions and related socio-demographic, economic and attitudinal covariates among young Nigerians. Researchers studying migration decision-making, labour market aspirations, views about development of Nigeria in comparison with other countries, and the drivers of irregular and regular migration will find the data useful.