Migrants Day: Stakeholders Admonish Africans on Safe Processes

On the occasion of International Migrants Day, Stakeholders have encouraged African descents to embark only on regular and safe migration process to fulfill their aspirations.

They made the call while reflecting on prospects and challenges of migration around the world.

Adeddayo adelowo reports that the theme for the 2020 International Migrants Day is ‘Reimagining Human Mobility’.

In recent times, issues around migration have become a great concern to many governments of the world with more pressure on African governments.

It is no longer news that many had been thrown into modern day slavery in the process of seeking greener pastures outside the shores of their fatherlands.

Also disheartening is the rate of death recorded in the process of irregular migration. While many had drowned in the Mediterranean Sea, a host of others had reportedly died of hunger, sicknesses and thirst in deserts while attempting to trek a sizeable long distance to gain entrance to the desired country.

Ruthless killing of migrants by boarder security is also a source of worry.

For instance, data from the Missing Migrant Project of the International Organization for Migration (IOM),United Nations agency reveals that About 3,101 migrants Out of which 1,483 were Africans died in 2020 while trying to reach different international destinations through irregular routes,

Some victims of irregular migration narrated their ordeals.

Concerned by the development, President, Journalist international forum for Migration, JIFORM Mr Abayomi Ajibola who acknowledged that though migration was necessary said irregular migration was barbaric and uncalled for.

Mr. Ajibola who regretted the alarming rate of Africans who fell victims of irregular migration called on African leaders to explore the potentials of the continent to make more conducive for African descents to reside.

Speaking on the theme, Reimagining Human Mobility The Media Lead, The Migrant Project, Mr Tayo Elegbede said it was disturbing that despite the global COVID-19 pandemic, irregular migration and human trafficking continue to thrive resulting in the death of many .

Mr .Elegbede noted that migration was not a crime if done the right way urging state and non-state institutions to advance socio-economic support for the teeming young African population whilst promoting safe and orderly migration.

He advised potential migrants to avoid desperation without direction and seek information from verified sources in order not to be victims of irregular migration, human trafficking and migratory fraud.