In a significant development, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported a historic surge in visa requests from Nigerians, reaching an unprecedented 260,000 for the year 2023.
Chief of Mission, Laurent De Boeck, disclosed this information during an interaction with media representatives, to commemorate the International Migrants Day at the IOM office in Abuja.
The data further revealed a concerning 15% increase in the number of individuals displaced due to clashes and human-made crises, with a particular focus on the Kano region. Disturbingly, displaced individuals from Kano not only sought refuge within the country but also started migrating abroad, leading to a rise in encounters with the IOM in Libya and Niger. This necessitated the organization’s intervention to organize their safe return and reintegration.
Moreover, Nigerian nurses have fallen victim to fraudulent job offers in the UK, with fake documents leaving them stranded upon arrival. The IOM highlighted the plight of these individuals, emphasizing the need for proper verification processes to prevent such irregularities and protect vulnerable migrants from financial exploitation.
The situation also underscored a shift in migration patterns, as efforts in Edo state successfully reduced departures, while Kano saw a surge in irregular migration. The IOM stressed the importance of addressing the root causes, including clashes, and collaborating with governments to combat smugglers and traffickers.
As global policies evolve, challenges arise with some countries, such as Canada and the UK, implementing stricter entry regulations. De Boeck highlighted ongoing discussions with European nations, including Italy, Spain, Belgium, and France, to explore regular migration pathways and bilateral relations to facilitate legal and safe migration.
The organization also acknowledged the growing number of Nigerians in the Middle East and their interest in “smart migration.” Collaborative efforts aim to ensure proper skills matching and fair working conditions for those seeking opportunities in these regions.
In response to the migration crisis in Tunisia, the IOM plans to facilitate the return of thousands of migrants, including Nigerians, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and adherence to legal frameworks.
IOM UN MIGRATION
Commitional Migrants Day Media Brief: IOM Nigeria Reflects on Progress and Commits to Upholding Migrant Rights
Ladies and gentlemen of the media, thank you very much for your presence. Good afternoon everyone.
He said, “The year 2023 has witnessed unprecedented increases in global migration, propelled by factors such as climate change, conflict, and economic disparities. In the face of this complex landscape, our responsibility to respond critically and compassionately is more crucial than ever, particularly for the individuals directly affected.
“In the realm of Migration Health, our efforts in 2023 have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to comprehensive healthcare. We conducted over 260,000 Pre-Departure Medical Health Assessments (PDMHAs), diagnosed and referred 166 migrants with TB, administered 15,000 vaccine doses, and renovated three public hospitals. This reflects our dedication to ensuring the well-being of those undertaking the journey of migration.
“Through collaborating closely with the Federal Government of Nigeria, IOM facilitated the voluntary return of 4,431 Nigerians, with 2,909 finding accommodation at the Migrant Transit Centre. Since 2017, a total of 34,158 migrants have returned, and 2,853 have received reintegration assistance, contributing to a grand total of 21,713 reintegrated since 2017. Our support extends beyond mere return, with the establishment of reintegration hubs and the implementation of community-based reintegration projects, providing crucial assistance to returnees and their communities.
“IOM’s Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services have been instrumental in reaching 106,947 individuals in 2023. These services offer material assistance, psychosocial support, and referral services to victims of trafficking, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable households, underscoring our commitment to holistic support.
“In our unwavering dedication to protection, IOM identified and supported 682 victims of trafficking in 2023. Our focus on vulnerable groups, including survivors
gender-based violence, persons with disabilities, and unaccompanied and Faparated children, is reflected in the development of policy documents such as Family Tracing SOPs and BIP guidelines.
“Moreover, our collaborative efforts with the Federal Government of Nigeria led to their accession to the Global Policy Network on Recruitment in 2023. This Trave promotes ethical recruitment and the protection of migrant workers. The Training of Trainers on MHPSS and Life Skills for Migrant Resource Centres (MRCS) staff further enhances their capacity to provide critical services to potential migrants.
“On this International Migrants Day, IOM underscores the need for people- centered and evidence-based solutions to the challenges posed by migration. When managed effectively, migration becomes a cornerstone of sustainable development, prosperity, and progress. Migrants, as workers, students,entrepreneurs, and contributors to diverse communities, are powerful drivers for development.
“As we celebrate international Migrants Day, IOM remains dedicated to unlocking the power of migration. Together, through collective actions and collaboration, we can create a better tomorrow. Migration is not just part of the solution; it is a key component of economic prosperity and a response to climate change.
“On this International Migrants Day, let us work hand in hand to harness the power of migration, recognizing that every person can make a difference and be an agent of positive change. Our collective actions today will shape a brighter and more inclusive future.”
