The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has organized a two-day workshop in Kano State to equip broadcast journalists and media practitioners with the tools to tackle irregular migration and human trafficking.
The co-creation session aimed to unite On-Air Personalities (OAPs) to critically address migration issues and leverage the media’s reach to combat misinformation.
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IOM Communications Officer Elijah Elaigwu highlighted that irregular migration remains a major issue in Kano, with many young people attempting unsafe border crossings. He urged media professionals who are the fourth estate to raise public awareness so citizens can make informed decisions before traveling.
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Since 2017, the IOM, alongside the Nigerian government, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), has successfully repatriated over 70,600 Nigerians.
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As more than 44,500 returned migrants have received comprehensive reintegration assistance, with many others currently undergoing the process.
Elaigwu emphasized that the IOM does not discourage travel, but advocates for safe, legal pathways. Intending travellers must secure proper documentation and thoroughly research their destinations to avoid falling prey to smugglers and human traffickers.
The IOM expects participating journalists to return to their stations and launch dedicated broadcasts to educate the public on the realities of irregular migration.
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Umar Muhammad, Head of Public Enlightenment for the NAPTIP Kano Command, revealed that the Naptip office has received 154 complaints regarding human trafficking, child abuse, and labour exploitation so far this year.
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These efforts have led to nine convictions, with offenders currently serving sentences ranging from six to seven years.
