Edo Governor Okpebholo Requests EU Aid Against Migration

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has urged the European Union (EU) and international partners to assist his administration in curbing irregular migration and addressing the underlying factors prompting residents to leave Nigeria. This appeal was made during a courtesy visit from EU representatives at the Government House in Benin City.

Okpebholo stressed his commitment to protecting Edo residents from the dangers associated with irregular migration, stating that living abroad is not the best option for everyone. He noted the establishment of the Edo State Migration Agency and the Edo State Diaspora Agency to engage stakeholders and improve local opportunities.

Okpebholo acknowledged a decline in migration from the state but expressed concern over the challenges faced by Nigerians abroad, citing the return of families from South Africa. He called for increased support from international partners to address the challenges faced by returnees.

The director-general of the Edo State Migration Agency, Lucky Agazuma, and the director-general of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, Loretta Ogboro-Okor, supported the governor's initiatives and called for collaboration with the EU.