World Migrant Day: Okpebholo Administration Positions Edo for EU-Linked Foreign Employment, Deepens Safe Migration Drive

The Edo State Government has unveiled strategic plans to position the state for foreign direct employment opportunities from countries within the European Union, as part of a broader effort to promote safe, orderly and regular migration for its citizens.

The Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency (EDMA), Mr. Lucky Agazuma, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Benin City during a sensitization roadshow organised to commemorate World Migrant Day across major streets of the state capital.

Agazuma said the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has prioritised the protection of Edo citizens at home and abroad, recording notable progress in the rescue and reintegration of citizens previously stranded in various countries.

He noted that the present administration has restored confidence among Edo youths by deliberately focusing development efforts on engaging local talent, a shift which has encouraged many returnees to come back home and contribute to the state’s rebuilding process.

According to him, Edo State is advancing a strategic migration policy modelled after global best practices, including systems in countries such as the Philippines, which leverage structured foreign direct employment. He revealed that the European Union has formally invited Edo State to Abuja for discussions on expanding direct employment opportunities to the state.

“We have made a strong case, and we have received commitments that foreign direct employment opportunities from the European Union will be extended to Edo State. We have officially been invited to Abuja to engage in modalities for implementation,” Agazuma said.

He explained that promoting safe migration requires sustained collaboration with foreign embassies, noting that discussions are ongoing to reduce visa denial rates and address factors driving irregular migration, including prohibitive travel costs that push youths toward unsafe routes.

The EDMA Director-General added that the agency is also working with security agencies in other African countries to curb cross-border irregular migration, describing the challenge as a continental issue requiring collective action.

He warned families to be vigilant during the festive season, cautioning against deceptive schemes that lure young people into trafficking and prostitution, and stressed that many lives have been lost due to irregular migration.

Agazuma urged Edo citizens to remain hopeful and committed to building the state, assuring that the Okpebholo administration is reviving the economy and creating opportunities that will benefit all residents.

Speaking at the event, returnees including Odigie Osaretin, Glory Agbomoba and Ese Ogbebor expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for facilitating their safe return and empowerment, noting that the skills support they received has enabled them to rebuild their lives at home.