Mind The (Immigration) Gap Project
Project Overview
A research initiative of Walk347 that examines the socio-economic and emotional effects of the Nigerian migration phenomenon, (locally known as “Japa”) on families. The project explores the expectations of those intending to migrate, the lived realities of migrants in the UK, and the challenges experienced by left-behind families in Nigeria. By gathering robust, data-driven insights, the initiative aims to inform practical policy recommendations and enhance public awareness around migration-related family separation and integration challenges.
Objective, Scope & Outcome
Assessing Expectations vs. Realities: The research investigates what Nigerians expect when seeking greener pastures and compares these anticipations with the realities faced in the diaspora.
Policy Recommendations: The findings will be translated into actionable recommendations for government agencies and NGOs, aiming to better support migrant families.
Public Awareness: The project launch and subsequent advocacy efforts will drive media conversations and community engagement, ensuring the research informs both policy and public understanding.
Multi-Method Approach
Multi-Method Approach: Employing surveys (via KoboToolbox), focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and case studies, the study covers diverse participant groups, including:
- Intending Migrants: Nigerians planning to migrate from Nigeria.
- Recent Migrants: Nigerians in the UK (0–3 years) experiencing early settlement challenges.
- Established Migrants: Nigerians in the UK (3+ years) who have navigated longer-term integration.
- Left-Behind Families: Spouses, children, and extended family members who remain in Nigeria.
Multi-stage Initiative
Foundation Setup:
- Define team roles and finalise research tools, ethical protocols, and stakeholder mapping.
- Prepare survey instruments (via KoboToolbox) and ensure data protection measures are in place.
Official Launch:
- The project will be launched on International Women’s Day (March 8, 2025) with a launch event at Welwyn Civic Centre, Welwyn UK and Hawkins AP in Egbeda Lagos Nigeria, social media teasers, and stakeholder engagement sessions.
Data Gathering:
- Deploy surveys, conduct focus groups, and in-depth interviews with key groups: intending migrants, recent and established migrants in the UK, and left-behind families in Nigeria.
Insight Generation:
- Analyse quantitative and qualitative data to identify key trends and gaps in expectations versus realities.
- Develop preliminary insights that will inform later policy recommendations.
Dissemination:
- Publicly release the research findings on International Day of Families (May 15, 2025).
- Organise media briefings, policy roundtables, and public webinars to share the results.
Advocacy and Stakeholder Outreach:
- Translate findings into actionable policy recommendations.
- Engage with government agencies, NGOs, and migrant organisations to drive impactful change and improve support for migrant families.
