The UN International Organization for Migration (IOM) has called on the Nigerian Federal Government to prioritize the interests of the youth in decision-making processes to enhance migration governance. Laurent De Boeck, Chief of IOM Mission in Nigeria, highlighted this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.
Discussing the IOM 2022-2024 Impact Assessment on Migration, De Boeck noted that both internal and external migration remain high despite governmental efforts to address migration-related issues. He emphasized the challenges young migrants face, stating, “Statistically, there are still, unfortunately, young people who suffer from migration abuse and end up in very complex situations. They often find themselves stranded in another country, intercepted by police, mistreated, and facing difficult issues of dignity when forced to return home without success.”
De Boeck stressed the importance of prioritizing youth to ensure they make informed decisions about migration. He revealed that the IOM plans to focus on creating regular pathways for migration through more critical engagement with governments by 2025. This initiative aims to identify safe and legal routes for youth who wish to migrate abroad.
“Migration should not be seen as the only solution. We aim to engage private sector employers in Nigeria to improve work conditions and employment opportunities,” De Boeck stated. He also underscored the need for skills acquisition and vocational training through partnerships with organizations like Cisco, ensuring that such programs are accessible to people wherever they are.
The IOM is currently focusing on Borno State, working with displaced individuals to increase their capacity and help them reintegrate into society. De Boeck emphasized that this initiative will remain a priority, even as his tenure as head of mission comes to an end.
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