BENIN CITY – The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has received commendation from the Italian Government for his administration’s systematic approach in tackling the scourge of illegal migration and human trafficking
The Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Stefano De Leo, at a dinner organised in his honour at the Government House, Benin City, assured of his country’s collaboration to help improve the state’s response against the menace.
He said, “The hospitality and love we have been treated to shows that Edo people are great and loving people. I heard your voices talking about the pride and royalty of your culture and the hope of a better future for the people.
“I am keen on discussing with the governor on ways to improve our activities here in Edo State. We have created an impression on several projects, especially migration flows that are legal and to fight all the issues linked to trafficking.”
The Ambassador continued: “We commend the efforts of the Edo State Government for the successes recorded in fighting irregular migration. This is only one part of the medal and the other part is to trace the root cause and boost the economy of the state, creating jobs, investment opportunities and fighting poverty.
“We are very keen to be part of the solution together as we want to work with the government of Edo State. I am looking forward to working with you and opportunities to create bridges between Nigeria and Italy.”
He noted that the Italian government is willing to collaborate with the state to create opportunities and attract investment in agriculture, technology and manufacturing, among others, adding, “Edo State will be at the top of our priority and we will work together to achieve the set goals.”
On his part, Governor Obaseki commended the Ambassador for the sustained relationship between the state and the Italian government.
He said, “We have substantial members of Edo people doing well in their various businesses in Italy and have integrated well into the Italian economy and society as they are our assets. We need to connect with them and build the bridge of progress.
“You will continue to assist us as we rethink our migration policies in Edo State. The Italian government has been very helpful to us in our efforts as we tackle human trafficking and irregular migration.”
The governor added, “We would like to have a discussion with the Italian government on our new strategy on irregular migration and human trafficking, which we have termed migration 2.0. In this strategy, we are tweaking our laws.
“Our discussion will include how to create a pathway for regular migration, creating windows for regular migration, thereby taking off the dangerous route involved in irregular migration and human trafficking.”
“Italy and Edo can make much gain and progress in the post-COVID-19 world by having properly structured pathways to get labour from Edo to Italy and likewise, get investment from the Italian economy back to Edo State,” he said.
