Refugee Commission Wants Youth Migration Checked

National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), has called for robust and actionable recommendations to address the pressing challenges of migration, especially concerning the aspirations and potential of the nation’s youth.

The commission noted that many internal migrants are driven by factors such as violence, natural disasters, or the pursuit of improved livelihoods, with a notable number becoming a link between internal and external migration through irregular routes.

Speaking yesterday in Abuja ahead of the National Migration Dialogue, an annual event organised by NCFRMI, the federal commissioner, Alhaji Tijani Aliyu Ahmed, highlighted the significance of this year’s theme, “Leveraging Youth Migration for National Development.”

He said all hands must be on deck to address migration challenges, particularly in connection with the youth’s aspirations.

Ahmed referenced Nigeria’s recent co-chairing of a thematic meeting of the Euro-African Dialogue on Migration and Development, where discussions centred on harnessing youth migration for national development.

He said the upcoming dialogue aims to build on the recommendations from this international meeting and identify implementable strategies and policies within the local context.

He said the dialogue focuses on internal migration, recognising it as a crucial aspect reflecting inequalities in development and economic opportunities across regions.

The NCFRMI leader expressed optimism about the dialogue’s objective to provide solutions grounded in evidence, fostering balanced regional development, addressing urbanisation challenges, and safeguarding the rights of internal migrants.

He added that the event will be inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.