BENIN CITY – The Edo State Government has secured a major breakthrough in its migration reform agenda, with the European Union indicating readiness to extend direct foreign employment opportunities to Edo youths.
The Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency (EDMA), Mr. Lucky Agazuma, disclosed this during a sensitization roadshow held across major streets of Benin City to mark World Migrant Day.
Agazuma said the development followed sustained engagement by the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo to promote safe, orderly and regular migration, stressing that the EU has formally invited Edo State to Abuja to finalise modalities for implementing structured foreign employment.
According to him, the Okpebholo administration has prioritised the safety and welfare of Edo citizens at home and abroad, leading to increased rescue, return and reintegration of Edo indigenes stranded in foreign countries.
He noted that renewed confidence in governance and deliberate investment in local talent had encouraged many returnees to come back and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
Agazuma said Edo was adopting global best practices, including migration models used in countries such as the Philippines, where structured labour export schemes protect citizens and boost economic growth.
He added that discussions were ongoing with foreign embassies to reduce visa denial rates and address factors driving irregular migration, including high travel costs that push youths toward unsafe routes.
The EDMA boss warned families to be vigilant during the festive season, cautioning against traffickers and fraudulent schemes that lure young people into irregular migration, prostitution and exploitation.
Returnees, including Odigie Osaretin, Glory Agbomoba and Ese Ogbebor, thanked the Edo State Government and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) for facilitating their safe return and empowerment, saying the support received had enabled them to rebuild their lives
