Redeemer's University VC and Experts Address Concerns Over Surge in Illegal Migration
Redeemer's University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Employment, conducted an advocacy program addressing the surge in illegal migration.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Vice-Chancellor of Redeemer's University, Prof. Shadrach Akindele, represented by Prof. Olalere Adeyemi, the Provost of the College of Post Graduate Studies, has voiced alarm over the escalating rate of illegal migration from Nigeria, citing the perilous risks involved.
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Speaking at an advocacy program organized by the Centre for Gender, Humanitarian and Development Studies (CGHDS) in collaboration with the Migrant Resource Center of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Prof. Akindele urged students, particularly those contemplating overseas travel, to adhere to proper channels to avert the dangers of falling prey to human trafficking.
Maurine Ovie, the Deputy Director and Head of the Migrant Resource Centre at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, disclosed startling statistics, revealing that over 24,000 Nigerians have been repatriated in the past seven years, with many others enduring dire circumstances abroad.
Addressing an institutional advocacy and community-focused training workshop titled "Promoting Effective Labour Migration, Decent Work, and Standardized Recruitment Process," Ovie emphasized the detrimental impact of irregular migration, particularly citing the "Japa syndrome," a term denoting the trend of youth fleeing the country. She highlighted Ejigbo as a significant corridor for illegal migration routes and emphasized the urgency of adopting safe and orderly migration practices.
Expressing concern over graduates neglecting job opportunities within the country, Ovie lamented that about 9,000 job openings with the ministry remain unutilized due to a preference for overseas travel among some youths.
Dr. Oluwatoyin Ilesanmi, the Acting Director of the Centre for Gender, Humanitarian and Development Studies at Redeemer's University, underscored the institution's commitment to enlightening final year students about the perils of illegal migration. Dr. Ilesanmi emphasized the humanitarian crisis arising from irregular migration, citing instances of individuals subjected to indecent employment, perilous transits, and exploitation.
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The advocacy program serves as part of the concerted efforts by Redeemer's University and governmental agencies to address the scourge of illegal migration, promote informed decision-making among youths, and safeguard their welfare and future prospects.
