Omanghana
Veteran Ghanaian broadcaster and tourism advocate Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, popularly known as Abeiku Santana, has said he would choose to live and work in Ghana even if he received an offer paying $100,000 monthly in the United States.
The Okay FM drive-time host made the statement during a media discussion about national pride, migration and the growing desire among young Africans to seek opportunities abroad.
Santana argued that personal fulfilment, community relationships and the ability to create an impact at home were more important to him than receiving a substantial salary in another country.
According to him, financial compensation alone does not guarantee happiness, peace of mind or a better quality of life.
Drawing on his international travels and interactions with Ghanaians living in North America and Europe, the broadcaster said life in Western countries was not always as comfortable as prospective migrants imagined.
He cited high taxes, demanding work schedules, social isolation and other systemic challenges as difficulties that people sometimes overlook when planning to relocate.
Santana encouraged young Ghanaians to consider the opportunities available within the country instead of treating migration as their only route to financial success.
He highlighted the potential within Ghana’s media, entertainment, tourism and hospitality industries, urging young people to develop sustainable businesses capable of creating jobs in their communities.
The broadcaster also emphasized the importance of cultural identity, family relationships and social belonging.
For him, remaining close to his family and using his influence to mentor young people in Ghana provides a level of satisfaction that cannot be measured solely by foreign earnings.
His comments have generated mixed reactions on social media.
Some commentators questioned whether rejecting an annual income of $1.2 million would be realistic for the average Ghanaian struggling with unemployment, rising living costs, inflation and increasing utility expenses.
Others supported Santana’s position, arguing that established professionals with financial security and strong social networks in Ghana may enjoy greater independence and community influence than they would while working abroad.
The debate has also highlighted the differences between the experiences of financially successful public figures and those of young graduates seeking stable employment and better economic prospects outside Ghana.
Source: Omanghana
