Business Urges Government To Fix Economy Rather Than Campaign Against Emigration
Chief Isaac Morba, a Nigerian entrepreneur based in South Africa has called on Nigerian governments at all levels to address the economic conditions responsible for mass emigration.
Morba made the call while speaking in a podcast organised by the Umuezeanya Youth Association on Tuesday.
He said rather than dissipating energy solely on campaigns that discourage people from travelling out of the country, the government should provide sustainable solutions to factors responsible for it.
The businessman who had lived in South Africa for more than 15 years, said poverty, unemployment and lack of opportunities were the majority factors pushing thousands of young Nigerians into dangerous migration routes.
He warned youths not to allow anyone to convince them to travel abroad without being sure of their mission or simply to go and ‘hustle’.
“That is one of the biggest scams out there.
“If you’re travelling, let it be for education, legitimate business or a well-planned opportunity,” he said.
Morba, who referenced his personal migration experience across Libya, Pakistan and South Africa warned that irregular migration often ended in tragedy, exploitation or disappointment.
He described Libya as a dangerous transit point where migrants were frequently trafficked, abandoned or exploited.
He said though South Africa had relatively advanced infrastructure and better economy, the xenophobic attacks remained a serious challenge for foreign nationals.
“South Africa has one of the best social infrastructure systems in Africa, but it is also one of the toughest places to live because of hostility towards other African nationals,” he said.
He said tackling youth unemployment and expanding economic opportunities in Nigeria would significantly reduce desperation-driven migration.
Certificate of Commendation was presented to deserving persons including Morba by Chief Olisemeka Obeche, the Executive Producer of the programme and Chairman of Umuezeanya Youth Association for his contributions to youth development.
