Dear Friends,

I have been following discussions in this egroup and after noting that it is mainly made up of intellectuals, I was hesitant to talk. But I feel very strongly about this issue under discussion as I'm struggling under the weight of a decision to "relocate" from Nigeria, where I am based for the United States, where I have a job offer. It is particularly difficult for me to make that decision because I have been advised not to by my colleagues and boss (we can make it here, the place to be is here in Nigeria, they echo) and advised to without further delay by my family and friends. Here is the pull. I know that more than 100 million Nigerians would jump at the offer if given the opportunity but I have been to the US a few times and not sure If I'ill be satisfied there in the long-run. I am personalising this so that the turmoil that some of us go through back here in Nigeria may be gleaned from my own personal one. And I would like to agree with Professor Onwudiwe in his views on this issue. It reflects my own thinking too. I don't think that all of us should leave Africa neither should all of us stay back home. We can make impact whereever we are in the world. The example of  other ethnicities and nations are instructive.

My decision though is still hanging on a balance.


Frances Ogwo.(Miss)
Executive Director-HURILAWS
Lagos. Nigeria.

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Somehow, I don't think that diasporan angst over whether to return home or not is the most important item on the continental African agenda. Those of us who want to stay abroad are most welcome to do so. No one should be excoriated or made to feel guilty for taking a personal decision based on his or her individual circumstances. Those of us who chose to
came home after study abroad are not heroes either.  We did not expect a heroes welcome when we returned and we did not get one. We just got on with our lives and careers and try to make a difference in our countries as best we can. We just wanted to come home, warts, plague and all. We are the embodiment of Afro-optimism.

Anyone who is waiting for today's African governments to create academic jobs at par with their diasporan jobs or to provide infrastructure, public security and research facilities near or equal to what they had abroad should not even bother to contemplate returning home. It won't happen anytime soon.


Ndubisi Obiorah
Centre for Law and Social Action (CLASA)
10, Alao Street
Off Rasmon Street, Osolo Way
Ajao Estate, Airport Road
Lagos, Nigeria

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I really enjoyed all those dialogues from all those intellectuals. What an eye opener. It has become my daily news. The good thing about it is the fact that none of them claims to be right but at the same time expressing their views and beliefs in a very healthy environment
that gives dignity and respect to others views and opinions without any criticism .This is all what being an intellectual is all about. What is so amusing about the dialogues is the fact that they appear some how confusing to some, very interesting to others while another group of your
readers might not have a clue about what is being discussed or rather can not really read a true meaning in to the dialogues. As to the issue of going back "Home", I think that depends on individuals view as most of your readers have suggested. The fact is that we are living
in a totally different era unlike the Azikwes and Nkrumahs . What works then (considering the era) might not necessary work now. Please, keep it coming.

Yemi. Egbeleke,
Plugerville, Tx
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