Omoh Odigie, popularly known as Waka Waka Doctor, has become a leading voice for Nigerians seeking to relocate abroad. From a young medical doctor struggling to survive on a ₦30,000 salary to an influencer who has visited nearly 80 countries, his journey captures the modern Japa story. In this podcast interview by Jay On Air, Omoh shares how frustration turned into purpose:
You’ve been to almost 80 countries. What’s the latest one you visited?
The last country I visited was Iceland. I had been there before, but it was so good I went twice.
Before becoming a travel influencer, you were a doctor. How did that transition happen?
You know what they say about condition and crayfish.
I graduated from medical school in 2011, did my house job, and was earning close to ₦200,000. But after that, when I started NYSC in Osun State, my pay dropped to ₦98,000. For the first six months, we didn’t even get paid. I picked up another job in a private hospital that paid ₦30,000, working day and night.
I wasn’t planning to leave Nigeria, but I saw a job advert in the Middle East with tax free income and free accommodation. It sounded too good to be true, but within three months, I relocated. When I got there, I realized there were opportunities Nigerians didn’t even know existed.
What was the biggest change you noticed abroad?
Everything. Infrastructure, systems, opportunities — all different. I started traveling around the Middle East, Qatar, UAE, Jordan, and saw how efficient their systems were. Initially, I used to post medical tips online, but a friend advised me to show people my travels. I did, and people wanted more. Then I made one video on how to move to France, and it blew up. That was how Waka Waka Doctor was born.
You’ve been vocal about Nigeria’s failing healthcare system. How bad was it when you practised here?
That is the problem. We never learn from our mistakes. Instead of improving hospitals or paying doctors well, the government focuses on stopping nurses from getting licenses to travel. Back then, we used hangers to hold IV drips and used phone torchlights to do surgery. Imagine putting a torch in your mouth to operate. It’s sad that what was happening a decade ago is still happening today.
Many believe relocating is only for the rich. What’s your take?
That’s exactly why I do what I do. Anyone can travel. You don’t have to be rich. I once shared a story of a teacher earning ₦25,000 who used my guide to move to Japan. He now earns $2,000 monthly. He just got a free online TEFL certificate, applied for jobs, and was offered one with paid flight and accommodation. People underestimate how valuable their Nigerian degrees are.
Is it harder to relocate now compared to years ago?
Financially, yes. The naira is weaker and visa rules are tighter. But the best time to move is always now. There are still free opportunities, over 12,000 funded options in Europe alone. Nigerians need to stop being lazy or desperate for agents.
So you don’t support the use of travel agents?
Not entirely. Agents deserve to earn too, but people should learn to do things themselves. When an agent says “100 percent guarantee,” that’s a red flag. No one can guarantee a visa or a job. I always tell people to keep their money and use my free resources to apply themselves.
Some people say influencers like you are just selling hope. How do you respond?
There’s some truth in that. Social media often highlights the positives. But I tell people that travel isn’t just about money, it’s about courage. You’ll leave everything familiar behind food, language, family and start over. It’s not easy, but if you’re patient and focused, it pays off.
What challenges did you face when you first moved?
Plenty. I was almost arrested in my first week in Saudi Arabia for walking during Friday prayers because everything shuts down. Luckily, they saw “Christian” on my ID and let me go. I had to learn Arabic, adjust to their food, and understand their culture. For instance, you don’t speak directly to a woman if her husband is there. It took time, but I adapted.
Language is a major concern for many Nigerians moving abroad. What advice do you have
Travel is not about money; it’s about courage. You can’t live somewhere long without picking up the language. Be intentional, learn one word a day, use apps like Duolingo, talk to locals. But before relocating, ask yourself why you’re moving for money, safety, or opportunity. Once you know your reason, you can overcome any obstacle.
Finally, what countries do you think Nigerians are overlooking?
Japan, definitely. It’s a goldmine for both skilled and unskilled workers. Others include Hungary, Portugal, Finland, and Poland. Nigerians need to realise the world is much bigger than Canada, the UK, and the US.
Watch full interview HERE
