Youth Ministry Partners with Key Stakeholders to Tackle Irregular Migration

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has intensified efforts to combat irregular migration among Nigerian youth through strategic partnerships and impactful initiatives.

This was highlighted by the Honourable Minister, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, during a two-day awareness program on “The Effects of Irregular Migration on Young People” held in Katsina State.

Comrade Olawande emphasized that the Ministry, under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, is collaborating with relevant government agencies to curb irregular migration.

He outlined several youth-focused empowerment programs designed to address its root causes. These include vocational training in garment and bead making, waste-to-wealth initiatives, digital employability and leadership programs (DEEL), and the establishment of Youth Houses across the 774 local government areas.

“In recent years, we have witnessed countless tragedies, from lives lost in the Mediterranean to horrifying cases of organ harvesting, child labor, and abuse. It is crucial we act to stop these needless journeys,” Olawande said.

The Minister also highlighted the relaunch of the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) with a ₦110 billion budget. This initiative aims to equip young Nigerians with tools such as drones for agricultural innovation, alongside start-up grants and skill-based training.

He further disclosed that youth development centers will be constructed nationwide, and a 30% affirmative action policy will ensure greater youth participation in governance.

Representing the Minister, Mrs. Grace Leleh, Deputy Director of Youth Centres and Camps, underscored that conflict, unemployment, economic hardship, and other socio-economic challenges are major contributors to irregular migration.

She called for collaborative efforts to address these issues and provide viable alternatives for young people.

The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, described irregular migration as a perilous phenomenon that not only endangers lives but also deprives the country of skilled professionals, contributing to a growing brain drain.

“It is disheartening that many of those embarking on these dangerous journeys are educated and skilled, which further exacerbates the loss of talent in Nigeria,” he added.

In his goodwill message, Jean Nahesi Kutumbakana, Program Manager of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Northwest Region, stressed the importance of tackling socio-economic vulnerabilities that drive migration.

“The northwest region is a critical hub for migration flows, and we at IOM remain committed to partnerships that address the root causes of irregular migration,” he stated.

Hon. Aliu Lawal Zakari, Katsina State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to curbing irregular migration, noting Katsina’s strategic position as a border state.

He urged youths to support government efforts and embrace opportunities provided to create a better future.

The event highlighted the Ministry’s unwavering dedication to empowering young Nigerians, fostering economic opportunities, and reducing the allure of risky migration.