The Initiative for Youth Awareness on Migration, Immigration, Development and Reintegration, said situations in the country would likely drive many Nigerian into irregular migration.

Solomon Okoduwa, Executive Director of IYAMIDR, a former aide to Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo on Illegal Migration, said in Benin on Tuesday.

He noted that apart from the post-COVID-19 challenges, the current economic situation was a reason many Nigerians will be seeking greener pastures outside.

Mr. Okoduwa said no fewer than 55 persons leave Benin weekly by road to Europe through Libya.

He added, “These migrants narrow their grievances to unemployment while some others see the exchange rate between the naira and euro as a compelling force. The current hardship in the country occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to this in no small means.

“As I speak with you, between 55 to 60 persons leave Benin on a weekly basis by road to Libya through the Niger Republic to take the Mediterranean Sea to Europe.”

He added, “If we must address this menace, there must be a competitive advantage for school leavers; skills should also be developed. The government at all levels must pay intention to issues of illegal migration.”

He said that genuine initiatives must be taken to stem the tide of irregular migration among youths in the country, adding that the Edo Okomu Oil was a good example.

Mr. Okoduwa, however, stressed that the activities of illegal migrants were not only restricted to roads.

“There are many more who leave by air transport than by road, and you will never know this. They leave through visas procured through other countries,” he stated. 

(NAN)