To check irregular migration and attendant consequences, former Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Muhammed Babandede, has urged Nigerians intending to travel abroad for greener pastures to go through regular channels to avoid being victimised.
He clarified that migration, in itself, is not a crime, as it contributes to nations’ economy, but advised that it must be done legally, by obtaining all necessary travel documents.
Addressing a two-day workshop on Sensitisation Strategy and Reportage on Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Persons, organised by Journalists International Forum For Migration (JIFORM) in partnership with the Nigerian-German Cenre for Jobs, Migration and Reintegration, Babandede blamed ignorance for many woes associated with irregular migration, trafficking in persons and related challenges
He said: “We need to stop irregular migration and trafficking in persons, by reporting the good side of Nigeria, instead of focusing on the negative aspects.”
“Ignorance is a very key factor when it comes to trafficking in persons and the media is a critical driver.
“I expect professional reporting after this workshop. Don’t show the people that Europe is paradise, we must promote heroism.”
The ex-CG charged journalists on respect for rights of victims and stop displaying their graphics.
JIFORM President, Dr. Ajibola Abayomi, said the workshop was to enhance capacity of journalists on evidence-based reporting, encourage better understanding of migrant management and rehabilitation of irregular migration victims.
National Press Officer of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Vincent Adekoya, urged journalists to observe ethics of the profession, national interest and protection of dignity and privacy of victims of irregular migration and trafficked persons.
