The Federal Government has cautioned Nigerian youths against the dangers of irregular migration, warning that the trend has become one of the gravest threats to the lives of young people and to national stability.
Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, delivered this warning during a campaign and advocacy programme held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Friday. The minister was represented at the event by Mrs. Grace Lelea, Director of Migration and Climate Change at the ministry.
The Root Causes of the Crisis
The minister explained that factors such as poverty, unemployment, insecurity, natural disasters, and conflicts are forcing more young Nigerians into irregular migration in search of greener pastures.
“It is a troubling phenomenon that our young people, driven by ambition, hope, and sometimes desperation, embark on deadly voyages across deserts and seas. Unfortunately, the Mediterranean Sea has become a graveyard for many, and countless others fall victim to human trafficking, organ harvesting, and modern-day slavery,” Olawande said.
Government Initiatives and Partnerships
According to him, the Federal Government, through partnerships with ministries, departments, agencies, and international development bodies, has rolled out a range of empowerment schemes designed to provide young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to succeed at home.
He added, “No government effort can succeed in isolation. Youth development is a shared responsibility. Let us commit ourselves to building an enabling environment that nurtures the dreams and aspirations of our young people.”
Ogun State Endorsement
Ogun State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Wasiu Isiaka, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Lanre Ogunyinka, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government. He highlighted that the Ogun State government remains committed to youth empowerment as a means of reducing irregular migration.
A representative of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Mrs. Abosede Jimoh, reinforced the call, warning that the youth population is the most vulnerable. “People should pass through the right channel while traveling and also have the knowledge of where they are going before embarking on any journey,” she said.