The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the challenge of irregular migration among youths in the state.
This was disclosed on Friday in Benin City by Mrs. Edesili Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, during a meeting with an Italian delegation led by Dr. Alberto Cilala, a consultant to the European Union and President of Mattei Africa for Humanitarian Aids Initiative in Italy.
Mrs. Anani emphasized the importance of the partnership, which she noted would provide opportunities for job creation, skills acquisition, and infrastructural development, ultimately addressing unemployment and human trafficking in the state.
“This initiative will reduce unemployment, create job opportunities, and address human trafficking and irregular migration. It will also enhance education, skills acquisition, agricultural investment, and infrastructural development for our people,” she said.
Dr. Cilala highlighted the role of the Mattei Plan, an initiative of the Italian Government, which focused on six key areas: education, health, security, agriculture, renewable energy, and integrated development. The program, fully funded by Italy, aim to provide Edo residents with skills in tailoring, furniture-making, shoemaking, and other crafts to improve livelihoods, particularly in rural areas.
Former Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Government on Anti-Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration, Solomon Okoduwa, described Edo State as a critical partner in the initiative, noting that the program will strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Italy.
Olorogun John Paul, popularly known as Daddy Showkey and Brand Ambassador of the Mattei Plan, praised the project, stating that it offers a sustainable path for Edo youths to secure meaningful livelihoods.
The partnership is expected to reduce irregular migration while creating transformative opportunities for Edo residents under the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
