Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo state has urged the European Union and other partners to support the state's efforts to discourage irregular migration. During a meeting with EU representatives at the Government House in Benin on Wednesday, Okpebholo emphasized his administration's commitment to protecting Edo residents from the dangers associated with irregular migration. He highlighted the importance of addressing the factors driving migration by engaging stakeholders and improving opportunities for residents at home.
Okpebholo expressed concerns about the challenges faced by Nigerians living abroad, citing the return of families from South Africa as an example. He encouraged returnees to see Nigeria as a place to rebuild their lives and contribute to the country's development. The governor acknowledged that government alone cannot adequately address the challenges facing returnees, calling for increased support from international partners. His administration has established the Edo State Migration Agency and Edo State Diaspora Agency to interface with relevant stakeholders.
The governor's commitment to migration management has attracted attention beyond Edo, with other states expressing interest in learning from the state's strategies. Okpebholo's efforts have also been commended by the Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Mr. Lucky Agazuma. Agazuma noted that the governor's administration has made significant strides in managing migration and addressing human trafficking in the state.
Dr. Loretta Ogboro-Okor, Director-General of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, called for stronger efforts to address irregular migration and promote safe labour migration. She commended Okpebholo for supporting the agency, reflecting an understanding of the importance of protecting the lives of Edo indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora. The agency is working to promote the welfare of Edo residents in the diaspora.
Franklin Nguendia, Seconded National Expert and European Union Liaison Officer, led the EU delegation to engage with state authorities on migration challenges. The visit aimed to understand the current migration situation in Edo, identify existing gaps, and discuss ways to improve cooperation in addressing related challenges. The EU delegation is exploring collaborative approaches to migration management with the state government.
Okpebholo emphasized that living abroad is not necessarily the best option for everyone, citing his personal experience. He believes that if Nigerians in the diaspora were in Nigeria, they could have contributed significantly to the country's development. The governor's stance on migration is centered on protecting Edo residents and promoting development in the state.
The state government is working to improve opportunities for residents at home, reducing the incentives for irregular migration. Okpebholo's administration is committed to addressing the root causes of migration, and the EU delegation's visit is expected to strengthen cooperation between the state government and international partners in addressing migration-related challenges.
Key points
- Governor Okpebholo urges EU support to address irregular migration in Edo state.
- The Edo state government has established agencies to manage migration and promote the welfare of residents in the diaspora.
- The EU delegation is exploring collaborative approaches to migration management with the Edo state government.
