Nigerian students eyeing life abroad after graduation have been advised to rethink their plans and instead explore export trade as a viable path to wealth and global relevance. This message was the highlight of the Students Export Programme held at the Rivers State University (RSU) Amphitheatre, led by Ofon Udofia, Executive Director of the Institute of Export Operations and Management (IEOM).
Udofia stated that the mass youth exodus, known locally as japa, could be curtailed by introducing export training in universities. He proposed Export Studies as part of Entrepreneurship Centres to drive youth involvement in the export sector and reduce unemployment. “There is no need to japa when you can export,” he told the audience, stressing that the IEOM Export Academy equips students with practical skills to earn legitimate income without capital, even using digital intelligence for product sourcing, buyer matching, and logistics coordination.
He challenged students to redirect their tech-savvy skills from cyber fraud (yahoo-yahoo) to international trade. “Become a finder in the export value chain,” he urged. “There are exportable products in every community—you just need the eyes to see and the will to act.” Dr Mercy Odibe, IEOM Director of Training, described the scheme as a bridge between academic knowledge and global market engagement. At the same time, Prof. Joy Eke-Ejiofor, Director of RSU’s Entrepreneurship Centre, lauded its impact, citing student successes in registering export firms. Partners, such as the Nigerian Stored Product Research Institute, showcased innovative technologies that reduce post-harvest losses and increase export readiness. PHCCIMA and other stakeholders also pledged support. Students described the event as eye-opening and empowering, with many committing to apply the knowledge gained.
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