The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling irregular migration by addressing the root causes of economic hardship and creating meaningful opportunities for its citizens.
This is part of broader efforts to ensure that Nigerians are not forced to migrate out of desperation, thereby avoiding becoming a burden on other nations.
This commitment was highlighted in a statement issued by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, following a high-level meeting in Abuja.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Guschelbauer, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the Minister of Women Affairs, Ms. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and the Director-General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Mr. Michael Spindelegger.
Speaking at the meeting, Senator Bagudu emphasized that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is determined to revamp the nation’s economy in ways that empower citizens to make voluntary choices about where they live, rather than being pushed to migrate due to lack of opportunities.
“Mr. President has made it clear that we must confront our realities. This means ending distortionary economic policies and mobilising more resources to build critical infrastructure that promotes inclusive growth and stabilises the economy,” the minister stated.
Bagudu further explained that the government’s ongoing economic reforms are designed not only to stimulate growth but also to reduce the incentive for illegal migration.
“We mean business. We do not want our youth to be seen as a burden in any part of the world. Instead, we want them to have the freedom to choose where they live, not be forced into risky migration,” he said.
He stressed Nigeria’s openness to international partnerships in tackling illegal migration, which he described as a growing challenge that undermines legitimate global mobility and cooperation.
The minister highlighted that these reforms are part of a wider strategy to attract investment, generate employment, and reduce poverty. By improving infrastructure and ensuring economic stability, the government hopes to retain local talent and stimulate innovation within the country. He noted that the government’s proactive approach will also improve Nigeria’s image globally and restore investor confidence.
Bagudu acknowledged that the challenges posed by irregular migration are not unique to Nigeria but are of international concern. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to work with partners like Austria and other countries to find sustainable and practical solutions. “This is not just a Nigerian issue; it is a shared global responsibility,” he said.
The Austrian Ambassador, Mr. Peter Guschelbauer, welcomed Nigeria’s proactive stance and reiterated Austria’s interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of migration and economic development.
Also contributing to the discussions, Mr. Michael Spindelegger, Director-General of the ICMPD, commended Nigeria’s willingness to collaborate on managing migration effectively and promoting economic empowerment. He recognised the importance of Nigeria’s role in shaping regional and global migration policy.
Ministers Yilwatda and Sulaiman-Ibrahim also underscored their ministries’ dedication to reducing poverty and addressing the underlying drivers of irregular migration. They outlined their focus on expanding social protection programmes, promoting gender-sensitive policies, and implementing targeted humanitarian interventions.
The meeting is part of a broader series of consultations aimed at strengthening international collaboration in migration governance, fostering economic stability, and empowering Nigerian youth.
This dialogue comes amid growing concern about the high rate of irregular migration from Africa, with many young people embarking on dangerous journeys abroad in search of better prospects.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has in recent years experienced a significant wave of migration—popularly known as the “japa” phenomenon—marked by the departure of both skilled and unskilled individuals seeking improved living conditions overseas.
The Nigerian government, through its current reforms and diplomatic engagements, aims to reverse this trend by enhancing domestic opportunities and promoting responsible, voluntary migration choices.