The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Benin City, Edo State says irregular migration is a risk and not an opportunity to better lives, and has warned youths to shun the lure of being trafficked abroad.
The service dropped the warning yesterday at a sensitisation campaign against the menace at its headquarters.
The campaign was organised as part of a national outreach on the risks and consequences of irregular migration while promoting safe and legal migration options.
In his opening remarks, the comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service, Edo State Command, CIS Martins Monyei, emphasised the need for collective responsibility in addressing the growing menace of irregular migration.
“Irregular migration is a risk, not an opportunity. Every stakeholder, from parents to community leaders, must play a role in educating our youths on the dangers and realities of unsafe migration routes,” he said.
The event brought together a diverse audience including youths, market women, community leaders and officers of the command.
Participants were engaged through a variety of activities, including interactive sessions, questions and answers and the distribution of educational materials such as brochures, posters and flyers.
Some of the messages included, “Stay informed only migrate through legal and safe channels, “Empower yourself through local opportunities and skills” Human trafficking prey on ignorance and desperation”.
According to the organisers, the campaign recorded notable success as participants gained a deeper understanding of the dangers of irregular migration.
The command also acknowledged certain challenges such as limited time to cover all sessions and lingering misconceptions among some participants about opportunities abroad.
The NIS recommended that regular sensitisation programs be extended to schools and rural communities, while government agencies and stakeholders should strengthen vocational and employment initiatives to reduce youth unemployment.
“We believe that sustained awareness, coupled with empowerment opportunities, will significantly reduce irregular migration. We appreciate all our partners and participants for making this initiative a success,” Monyei said.
