If you are a Nigerian, then you must be familiar with the term or word 'Jakpa'. If you are not 'Jakpa' is a popular slang used to portray someone who wants to travel out of the country, example my brother David 'don jakpa' meaning David has travelled out. As Nigerians we travel for so many reasons, it could be for business, education or pleasure.
Is Jakpa Limited To Some People?
No! Before now travelling out was kind of limited to the likes of doctors, engineers, students or simply put people who could afford it. But that’s no longer the case. As an Artisan, a plumber, an electrician, a tailor, carpenter, or any hand-skilled individual, If you are good at what you do and it is your dream to travel out many great opportunities awaits you outside this shores of Nigeria, all you need is the right information.
So if you tick this boxes, you are a Nigerian? an Artisan? you are good at what you do or ready to learn on the job? and you are dreaming or willing to travel out? then this post right here is for you. We’ll show you 10 vital things you need to know and put in place to give you a smooth edge to your Jakpa journey. Whether you dream of working in the UK, Canada, Dubai, or anywhere in the world, this guide will help you.
What Is There For You If You Travel Out?
- Better pay: Even basic jobs like cleaning can pay reasonably well talk more of your skill.
- Access to education and training: You can improve your skills while working.
- Support your Loved ones better: Ability to provide more for family and loved ones.
- Structure and Growth: Living in an organized system can boost career growth.
- Pathway to permanent residency or citizenship: You can settle and raise a family if you want.
10 Things Every Artisan Should Know Before Jakpa-ing Abroad
Here are 10 practical things to know and put in place as a Newbie in the travel space:
1. You Can Jakpa With Skills – No Degree Needed
Countries like Canada, UK, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Australia etc hire skilled laborers for:
- Construction
- Plumbing
- Farming
- Factory work
- Caregiving
- Driving
You don’t need a university degree. A trade skill, training certificate, or even work experience is enough.
2. Get Your International Passport Ready
This is the first thing you should acquire after having a skill and choosing your travel destination. Without a valid Nigerian international passport, you can’t travel anywhere.
Visit your nearest immigration office or apply online to get it ready. comment below if you need a step by step guide on how to apply online on your own.
3. Look for Visa-Sponsored Job Offers
Some employers abroad are willing to employ, cover your visa and travel cost if you're qualified and trustworthy.
Search job sites like:
- workabroad.ph
- indeed.co.uk
- jobbank.gc.ca (for Canada)
Or follow EduJakpa International for more visa sponsored job updates.
4. Be Financially Prepared
Even for sponsored jobs you still need money at hand, you may need to cover:
- Medicals
- Police clearance
- Visa application fees
- Flight tickets (in some cases)
5. Get a Proof of Your Skill or Experience
Can you lay bricks? or Style hair? or even Drive a long distance? Clean offices? You need proof.
Collect a lot of photos of your work or you in the process, get testimonials, recommendations, or register at a local trade association.
6. Apply Through Legal Channels or Agency
You can apply through verified tested and tried agents or direct online portals. Always make research of your channels to avoid fake agents and scammers. Also double-check:
- Job offers
- Visa application websites
- Emails and links
7. Learn Basic Communication Skills
If you are applying to an English speaking country, even if your English is not A1, as far as you can communicate and speak what people understand no problem.
You can use free tools like YouTube videos or mobile apps like Duolingo to learn.
8. Prepare Mentally and Emotionally
I dont mean to scare you, but you have to be ready mentally for every and anything. Traveling to a new country can be hard at first. You'll face:
- Cold weather
- Culture shock
- Long working hours
- and more
9. Know the Country’s Rules for Your Work Type
Some countries allow you to change jobs after arrival, while others don’t. Some may provide housing, insurance, transport and more; others dont they expect you to sort it out.
Always read your contract of work and understand the visa terms, if it is what you can do before leaving Nigeria.
10. Stay Connected with Others Abroad
They are a lot of Nigerian community groups in almost every country, find one and join. Also try churches and forums in your destination country. They can:
- Help you settle in
- Give tips on side jobs
- Connect you with better opportunities
Final Tip and Advice for Every Aspiring Artisan Who Wants to Travel Out:
Being a bricklayer, hair stylist, mechanic, cleaner, or just someone with a dream, know this:What a time to be born! where having a skill is a thing of pride! Harness it and use it wisely. Where you are matters to bring you to the spotlight that you need, if it means travelling seven seas then go for it and be the very best you can.
The only thing you require is planning, patience, and correct information.
At EduJakpa International, we’re committed to helping you and every Nigerian, no matter your background, with the right information to find legal, safe, and life-changing opportunities abroad.
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Your skill is your passport. Use it wisely. Jakpa with Sense