In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja, Laurent De Boeck, Chief of IOM Mission in Nigeria, emphasized the importance for the Federal Government of Nigeria to prioritize the involvement of youths in decision-making processes to enhance migration governance.
Boeck highlighted in the IOM 2022-2024 Impact Assessment on Migration that despite the government’s efforts to address migration-related issues, there is still a significant level of both internal and external migration.
He pointed out the challenges faced by young people who experience migration abuse, becoming stranded in foreign countries and encountering difficulties ranging from mistreatment to struggles with dignity upon their return.
Boeck stressed the necessity of maintaining a focus on empowering the youth to make well-informed decisions about going abroad, even as the government continues to make advancements in addressing migration issues at state and federal levels.
Looking ahead to 2025, Boeck mentioned the mission’s plans to prioritize establishing regular pathways for addressing migration challenges through closer collaboration with governments. This would involve identifying appropriate avenues for young people seeking opportunities abroad.
He emphasized the need to broaden the approach beyond emigration as a sole solution, proposing increased engagement with private sector employers to enhance working conditions and job availability within the country. Boeck highlighted partnerships with organizations like Cisco to facilitate skills development and vocational training, irrespective of people’s location.
Currently focusing on supporting individuals displaced in Borno, the mission aims to build their capacity for reintegration into Nigerian society by promoting employability and value creation.
Boeck underscored that these priorities will continue even after his departure as head of the mission, stressing the enduring commitment to advancing migration governance through youth empowerment.