The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with media organisations and other stakeholders to address Nigeria’s complex migration challenges.
Speaking during her inaugural meeting with journalists in Abuja on Thursday, IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, Ms. Sharon Dimanche, emphasized the crucial role of media collaboration in driving effective migration policies and public awareness.
“There are many initiatives aimed at addressing migration challenges. IOM’s role is to simplify these initiatives and partner with key stakeholders to tackle migration issues head-on,” Dimanche stated.
She underscored communication as a strategic entry point for addressing migration concerns and highlighted the need to empower young Nigerians with the right information, skills, and legal pathways for migration.
“How do we train and prepare our youthful population? Do they have the right skills and knowledge? How do we ensure they have proper visas, so that those migrating from one region to another can do so safely and legally?” she posed.
Dimanche described safe migration as a shared responsibility between countries of origin and destination, calling it a “win-win for all.”
Citing initiatives like “Europe-Africa for Africa,” she said IOM aims to promote legal migration options and sustainable solutions, particularly by collaborating closely with the media and government to disseminate accurate and timely information.
“All hands must be on deck to promote safe migration, which benefits everyone,” she added, stressing the need for a unified approach involving government, media, and private sector actors.
Commending Nigeria’s proactive stance against irregular migration, Dimanche pledged continued support from IOM, particularly in enhancing intra-African migration systems and ensuring safety and dignity for all migrants.
“There is political will in Nigeria, and we’re here to support the government, media, and private sector,” she concluded.
