The Edo State Government has announced new plans to attract foreign direct employment opportunities from countries within the European Union, as part of its efforts to promote safe, orderly and regular migration for citizens.
The Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency (EDMA), Lucky Agazuma, made this known while speaking with journalists in Benin City during a sensitization roadshow held to commemorate World Migrant Day across major streets of the state capital.
Agazuma explained that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has made the protection of Edo citizens at home and abroad a top priority, achieving significant results in rescuing and reintegrating citizens who were stranded in various countries.
He noted that the current administration has restored confidence among Edo youths by focusing on local engagement and development efforts. This approach, he said, has encouraged many returnees to come back home and participate in rebuilding the state.
According to Agazuma, Edo State is adopting a strategic migration policy modeled after global best practices. He pointed out that the policy takes inspiration from systems in countries such as the Philippines, where structured foreign direct employment is widely used. He also revealed that the European Union has invited Edo State to Abuja for talks on expanding direct employment opportunities for residents.
“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 further stated that promoting safe migration requires consistent cooperation with foreign embassies. He noted that discussions are ongoing to reduce visa denial rates and to address challenges that drive irregular migration, including high travel costs that often push youths to take unsafe routes.
The EDMA Director-General also said the agency is working with security agencies across African countries to control cross-border irregular migration. He described the issue as a continental concern that needs joint efforts to resolve.
Agazuma cautioned families to stay alert during the festive season, warning against fraudulent schemes that deceive young people into trafficking and prostitution. He stressed that many lives have been lost due to unsafe migration attempts.
He encouraged Edo citizens to remain hopeful and supportive of the state’s development agenda, assuring that the Okpebholo administration is rebuilding the economy and creating job opportunities that will benefit everyone.
Some returnees, including Odigie Osaretin, Glory Agbomoba and Ese Ogbebor, expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for facilitating their safe return and providing empowerment support. They said the training and assistance they received have helped them restart their lives and find stability back home.
