The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, has launched a bold and structured initiative to combat irregular migration and human trafficking, issues that have historically plagued the state and robbed many youths of their future.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicating these twin evils through a multi-sectoral approach that combines social justice, grassroots engagement, and long-term reintegration for victims.
Speaking on the government’s new migration policy thrust, the Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Hon. Lucky Agazuma, disclosed that Governor Okpebholo is leading a strategic, human-centered response to the migration crisis. According to him, “No administration in the history of Edo State has tackled the issue of irregular migration with the commitment, policy depth, and urgency that Governor Okpebholo has brought to the table.”
The Governor’s efforts, he said, are centered on restoring dignity and creating sustainable opportunities for victims and returnees, particularly the youth who are most vulnerable to trafficking networks.
Innovative Policy Models Launched
As part of the new framework, the Migration Agency has introduced two flagship models:
- S³ Model – See it, Say it, Sort it – which encourages community members to report suspected cases of trafficking and migration-related crimes.
- R³ Model – Re-admit, Rehabilitate, Reintegrate – which provides returning migrants with psychosocial support, vocational skills, business start-up assistance, and long-term economic reintegration.
Hon. Agazuma noted that the agency is working closely with faith-based groups, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and international development partners. Functional migration desks and trained field officers have been deployed across all 18 local government areas to ensure data-driven and community-focused action.
Correcting Migration Myths and Promoting Safe Alternatives
To address the root causes of irregular migration, the State Government has launched a comprehensive safe migration awareness campaign targeting potential migrants and returnees. The campaign seeks to dispel harmful myths—especially among youth—that life abroad is always better, based on flashy social media portrayals.
“The reality for many is far from glamorous,” Agazuma stressed. “Our campaign presents practical insights and real-life stories to inform and protect our people.”
The agency has also extended its advocacy to embassies of over 20 countries, primarily in the European Union, calling for visa policy reforms, lower application costs, and better legal pathways for travel and employment.
Successful Rescues and Prosecutions
Under the Okpebholo administration, several high-profile rescue missions have been conducted. These include the repatriation and rehabilitation of young girls trafficked to Libya and Burkina Faso. One such case involved the successful return of a 14-year-old girl with direct intervention and funding from the Governor.
Another landmark achievement was the arrest and prosecution of a native doctor notorious for administering trafficking oaths. His conviction has become a strong symbolic victory against fear, coercion, and ritualistic manipulation used by traffickers.
Long-Term Support and Youth Empowerment
The Migration Agency has put in place a robust post-reintegration monitoring system that ensures ongoing mentorship, financial coaching, psychosocial care, and entrepreneurial development for returnees. Many beneficiaries are also being trained in digital marketing and branding to improve their business success.
In collaboration with the private sector, the State is leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) resources to fund returnee empowerment programs, create jobs, and expand skill acquisition opportunities.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his government is committed to the well-being of all Edo citizens—both at home and abroad.
“No Edo person must die unjustly or be forced into slavery,” the Governor said. “The investments we are making in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation are for all our people. Every life must be preserved to enjoy these benefits.”
A Call for Collective Action
The State Government has called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups, and security agencies to work in synergy to advance the cause of safe migration, youth development, and human rights protection.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration, officials say, will remain people-oriented, proactive, and relentless in its pursuit of a safer, more empowered Edo State.
