Edo State Government Welcomes Libya Returnees, Pledges Support and Reintegration
By Anita Erhenhi
In a significant humanitarian gesture to mark Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first 100 days in office, the Edo State Government through the office of Edo Migration Agency (EDMA) has welcomed a group of Libya returnees at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
The returnees, comprising both men and women, were received by the Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency (EDMA), Hon.Chief Lucky Agazuma.
Hon. Agazuma assured the returnees of the government’s commitment to their reintegration into the society, emphasizing that they would undergo various vocational training programs to equip them with skills for self-reliance. He encouraged them to see their return as a fresh start rather than a setback.
“You should see your current situation as a passing phase in the journey of life,” he said. “You are back home, and you will be taken care of. The government is determined to make you ambassadors who will educate other young people about the dangers of irregular migration.”
The DG who was on ground to receive the returnees acknowledged the difficulties faced by those who embarked on the perilous journey and stressed the importance of using their experiences to dissuade others from making similar mistakes.
“You will not wish what you went through on even your enemies. That is why we will make you ambassadors to share your harrowing experiences with others. We are not here to judge you; we all make mistakes, and anyone can be deceived. What matters now is that you are home, safe, and you have a governor who listens and cares about every Edo citizen.”
He further praised Governor Okpebholo for his proactive approach to governance and his dedication to improving the lives of Edo people, adding that every citizen of the state matters to the governor.
The returnees expressed gratitude for the warm reception and the government’s willingness to support their reintegration. Many shared heartbreaking accounts of their ordeal in Libya, reinforcing the urgent need for awareness and better opportunities for Edo youths to discourage illegal migration.
With the Edo State Government taking a firm stand on migration issues, the administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for youths to thrive within the state, ensuring that no one feels compelled to seek greener pastures through dangerous and illegal routes.
