IRREGULAR MIGRATION THREATENS LIVES, ECONOMIC DEVT, FG WARNS

The Federal Government has warned that irregular migration poses serious risks to human lives and Nigeria’s economic development, urging citizens to pursue safer and legal pathways when seeking opportunities abroad.

The warning reflects growing concerns about the dangers faced by migrants who undertake risky journeys through unofficial routes in search of employment, education and better living conditions. Such journeys can expose people to human trafficking, exploitation, violence, detention and life-threatening conditions.

Government officials have continued to encourage Nigerians, particularly young people, to make informed decisions about travelling abroad and to verify migration opportunities before committing money to agents or intermediaries.

Irregular migration can also create economic challenges for families and communities when people lose their savings to fraudulent travel arrangements or become victims of trafficking. In some cases, migrants return home with serious physical and psychological consequences after dangerous journeys.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, delivered the warning through the ministry’s Head of Youth Migration and Climate Action Resilience, Oyekan Adedoyin, during a campaign and awareness programme in the southern zone.

Olawande said the government remained committed to initiatives that empower young people, improve their livelihoods and promote national development. He called on government agencies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to work together to address the factors driving irregular migration and encourage safer alternatives.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Adebowale Adebayo, urged young Nigerians to acquire relevant skills and explore available opportunities to improve their living standards. He cautioned that travelling abroad did not automatically guarantee a better life and warned that irregular migration could expose young people to exploitation and human trafficking.

Other stakeholders at the programme called for sustained public awareness campaigns to educate young people about migration risks. They also emphasised the need for stronger support systems for returning migrants and initiatives that create opportunities within local communities.

Rose Odigbo, a member of the Oyo State Reintegration Committee, acknowledged young people’s desire for better opportunities but urged them to pursue their ambitions through safe and lawful channels.

The campaign forms part of wider efforts to discourage dangerous migration journeys while promoting youth empowerment, skills development and access to legitimate opportunities.

The government urged young Nigerians to make informed decisions about migration and contribute to national development by using their skills and talents to build sustainable livelihoods.