Abokis and Yankees.

We decry the brain-drain phenomenon in Nigeria. It is in no little measure a contributor to the wretched state we are in as a Nation.

We lose our very best. The very best that would have developed our (own) Nation.

The rich send their wards abroad for education, and afterwards, they settle in and never come back. The less rich struggle, sell properties, save up their earnings in order to afford the cost of processing travel papers and purchasing tickets.

Some bright chaps land scholarships, onward they move, and most never come back.

Plane ticket to any of these Western countries range between 250,000-500,000 naira pp. Whoever that can cough out that, either comfortably or "widow's mitely" has above-average financial muscle.

Even those that brace the Sahara in their sojourn to Europe, such resilience can be used to attain success in any (other) endeavor.

After they migrate , then what? They simply join the rat-race of another of another society. Beginning from the very bottom and with sheer hardwork, diligence and some luck, some make it to the top.

Some scrub, some wash (both living things and non-living things), some keep guard, some chauffeur, some prostitute, some take up entry-level jobs irrespective of whatever job qualification and experience they may have attained in Nigeria.

Keep in mind that these are our very best ;in intelligence, resilience, pedigree, etc. Kids born with silverspoon in their mouths seek and take up jobs that its equivalent in Nigeria would be a humiliation for their reputation.

But yet while abroad, they hold onto such jobs with all strive and humility. These are kids their parents can hook up with mouth-watery jobs at the snap of a finger. But instead, they choose to "derobe their royal apparels" and live the better life of a commoner another country offers.

Unfortunately, they fill the streets of other Nations, both as legal and illegal immigrants. Sweating their backs out, in all diligence and uprightness, with utmost efficiency and humility. Conforming to the rules of a system while we cut-corners in ours.

I bought something today from "an aboki" man who peddles his wares on a cart. "Aboki's are common sight in the Eastern part of Nigeria. They take up menial jobs, such as, shoe mending, security guards, domestic staff, water peddlers, corner shop properitors,etc.

In one sentence, they are what we travel abroad to become. Keep in mind it is our very best that travel abroad. It is only the strong that brace the uncertainties of a foreign land, leaving behind their loved ones for a chance of a better life.

I know I cannot say that I have seen "street Abokis" who rose from being "street Abokis" to become academicans, Doctors, celebrities, scientists, etc. So please, if you are an "international Nigerian" living a professionally - fulfilled life abroad, biko do not say I compared you to an "Aboki".

But next time you see an Aboki in your street, do not look down at him, because it is the same hustle that took your brother, lover or husband to foreign countries where they take up all kind of jobs just to stay afloat and remit money home.

Who knows, maybe these Abokis' are the finest from where they come from too. Yet, they are willing to work hard and bear all manner of demeaning experiences just to make a better living for themselves and their family.

I do not understand the mystery behind the willingness of people to toil in foreign lands. Being orderly, efficient, and all that. Yet at their home front, they be consumed with laxity.

You know what they say "the grass is not greener on the other side, it is only green when you water it".