Umuahia – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Executive Government of Abia State have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster their partnership and enhance the benefits of migration for the State.

As part of the new MoU, IOM and the Abia State Government have agreed to deepen their cooperation to strengthen research and data management on migration dynamics in the State, explore joint actions to harness the opportunities of migration for state, including remittances, and strengthen the State’s capacities to reduce irregular migration and counter trafficking and migrant smuggling through awareness raising and youth skills acquisition in partnership with Government and private sector entities.

“In the past months, we have introduced policies that aim to create an enabling environment for investors and business in Abia State. We are therefore excited to partner with IOM to continue deploying innovative approaches that will encourage reverse migration”, said H.E. Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, Executive Governor of Abia State, during the signing ceremony.

The signing of the MoU between IOM and Abia State Government underscores the importance of a coordinated approach to migration governance, ensuring that migration contributes positively to the State’s development while protecting the rights and well-being of people.

Since its establishment in Nigeria, IOM has played a pivotal role in enhancing migration governance through comprehensive research, robust data management, and innovative policy deployment. These efforts have led to the development of a National Migration Policy, the development and support of thematic coordination mechanisms at Federal and State levels to promote a whole-of-government approach, and the promotion of safe and regular migration pathways through innovative approaches.

"IOM values its partnership with Abia State and looks forward to building on our existing initiatives to realize the promise of migration for Nigeria”, said Paola Pace, IOM Nigeria’s Chief of Mission ad interim during the signing ceremony. “We are committed to supporting the State’s efforts in migration governance through our current programmes and partnerships to foster stronger investments, including from the diaspora, and unlock the potential of youths to drive social change and sustainable development", she added. 

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For more information, please contact Francois-Xavier Ada, Media and Communications Officer. Email: fadaaffana@iom.int.