The Adolescent Health Information Project (AHIP), in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has launched a three-day training programme in Kano to equip Nigerian migrant returnees with financial literacy and business management skills.
The initiative is being implemented under the ROOTS Project and aims to help returnees rebuild sustainable livelihoods after returning from irregular migration. Organizers say the programme is designed to improve participants’ entrepreneurship skills, support successful reintegration into society, and discourage dangerous irregular migration among young Nigerians.
Speaking at the opening of the training, ROOTS Project Programme Manager Halima Kasim said many returnees came back to Nigeria after facing exploitation, deportation, financial losses, and other hardships during irregular migration journeys. She explained that these experiences often make it difficult for them to restart their lives and become economically independent.
Kasim noted that the ROOTS Project has already provided participants with training in agricultural value addition, climate-smart agriculture, agribusiness, and food processing. She described the current programme as the fourth and final phase of the project, focusing on strengthening financial literacy and business management to help participants successfully run their businesses.
According to her, the training will teach participants how to manage their finances effectively, build a savings culture, and access business financing. These skills are expected to improve the long-term sustainability of their businesses and increase their chances of economic success.
Facilitator Shuaibu Umar said the programme will provide practical lessons on financial management and small business administration. He emphasized that separating personal finances from business funds is essential for running a successful enterprise and encouraged participants to develop regular saving habits to support future business growth.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Habibu Abdullahi expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing the training as timely and valuable. He said the knowledge gained would strengthen participants’ financial discipline and help them expand their businesses more effectively.
The ROOTS Project also seeks to encourage more young Nigerians to pursue opportunities within the country rather than embark on risky irregular migration journeys that often expose migrants to human trafficking, exploitation, abuse, and other dangers. Organizers believe that providing returnees with practical business skills and financial knowledge will improve their economic resilience while supporting safer and more sustainable migration choices.