Stakeholders Caution Against Desperate Youth Migration At Delta State Summit

In observance of the 2023 International Day of Migrants, a one-day stakeholders’ engagement summit in Delta State raised a collective voice against the perilous trend of desperate migration among the youth.

The event brought together key figures including the Permanent Secretary of Delta State Ministry of Youths Development, Ngozi Mogbolu, Mrs. Okoye Azuka Tessy, Deputy Controller of Immigration overseeing Migration in the State, Mr. Chris Anyabuine, Delta State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and Mr. Ojo Olufisayo, the representative of the International Organization for Migration. They underscored the significance of the World Migrants Day, urging young individuals to avoid venturesome migration.

Highlighting the dangers associated with irregular migration, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe, the Delta State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, stressed the need to sensitise youths, predominantly affected by irregular migration, about its inherent risks.

Erebe, who was representing the Director of the Peoples Rights Department, Mrs. Juliet Ojefia, stressed the summit’s focus on the theme: “Safe and Orderly Migration: What You Need to Know, Have and Do.” This approach aims to enhance awareness and understanding among youths regarding the protocols for secure and organised migration, advocating collective efforts to combat irregular migration.

Erebe applauded the task force and committee on irregular migration for their pivotal role in shaping policies that prioritise the welfare of migrants, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to the cause.

“It is also to provide them with the understanding of the processes they need to adhere to for safe and orderly migration. There is a need for collective efforts towards tackling irregular migration.

During a keynote address, Mrs. Nwanze Ijeoma, the Coordinator of the Taskforce on Irregular Migration, reiterated the essence of the International Day of Migrants. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about migrants’ rights, highlighting the repercussions and hazards of irregular migration, and advocating for the practice of safe and orderly migration.

Specifically addressing the achievements, Ojo Olufisayo from the International Organization for Migration stated that they had engaged with approximately 12,675 migrants, initiating reintegration for about 5,127 individuals, with successful reintegration completed for 7,548 migrants.

The International Day of Migrants, observed globally on December 18, serves as a reminder to address migration challenges and safeguard the rights and well-being of migrants.