A Foundation under the aegis of the Black Ancestral Native Communities (BANC) has expressed concerns at the alarming rate of irregular migration among young African youth.
Speaking on the development, the founder and CEO of BANC Foundation, Dr. Chibuzor E. Onyema, said his foundation in collaboration with other stakeholders will soon launch an action plan to reduce the menace in the African region.
He said the event tagged ‘Japa Conundrum” would focus on the launched of Anti-Irregular Migration Summit (AiMS) which will identify the socio-economic, political, and environmental factors driving irregular migration
The event which will also look at comprehensive strategies for addressing the irregular migration crisis, aims to bring together key stakeholders, including government officials, youth, international organisations, NGOs, researchers, and community leaders, to devise actionable strategies to combat irregular migration.
The event will promote international cooperation, develop robust policies, and encourage sustainable development to tackle the root causes of migration.
According to Onyema, the event which will be holding at the NAF conference center Abuja would have in attendance figures such as Professor PLO Lumumba.
Other distinguished speakers include Dr. Anthony Chibo-Christopher, His Excellency Mohsen Antit, Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia, and His Imperial Majesty, Professor Fuankeng Achankeng.
They will all provide in-depth discussions on the complex issues surrounding irregular migration, according to the foundation.
BANC Foundation founder further disclosed that the objectives of the summit include identifying the socio-economic, political, and environmental factors driving irregular migration, formulating effective policies to prevent it, and fostering collaboration among countries and organisations.
“AiMS will also focus on raising public awareness about the consequences of irregular migration, promoting legal migration channels, and addressing development needs in origin countries to reduce migration pressures.
“Experts and policymakers will delve into topics such as economic drivers, political instability, and environmental factors contributing to migration. The summit will feature discussions on economic development, legal reforms, and human rights, offering participants practical strategies to address irregular migration. Presentations will highlight successful global initiatives that have effectively tackled migration challenges, and collaborative sessions will aim to develop a comprehensive action plan.
“A significant outcome of the summit will be the launch of the Irregular Migration Skills Acquisition and Resources Centre (IMMSaRC). This institute will provide hands-on training for youth, helping bridge the educational gap and offering employment opportunities. It will also serve as a genuine means of labour exchange between Africa and Western countries.
“Additionally, AiMS is expected to enhance understanding of the root causes and consequences of irregular migration, generate policy recommendations, and strengthen partnerships among participating entities. The summit will also focus on raising public awareness about migration challenges and promoting sustainable solutions to address the push factors driving irregular migration.
“The summit, organised by the Blacks Ancestral Native Communities (BANC), a Pan-African initiative dedicated to empowering Africans and the global Black community, will convene a diverse group of stakeholders to tackle the socio-economic and political complexities of irregular migration,” he said.
Highlight of the summit will be the unveiling of a book by BANC’s Founder, titled “The Japa Conundrum: Socio-Economic and Psychological Considerations.”