Makinde allocates 1,000 hectares for youth empowerment to curb irregular migration

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has allocated 1,000 hectares of land for a youth empowerment and reintegration initiative aimed at curbing illegal migration and the increasing trend of irregular “japa” journeys through the desert.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Migration and Homeland Security, ACG Segun Adegoke (rtd), disclosed this on Monday, shortly after the inaugural meeting of the Oyo State Reintegration Committee in Ibadan.

Adegoke said the committee has been tasked with addressing issues related to reintegration, prevention, advocacy, and public awareness on the dangers of illegal migration. He emphasized the state government’s zero tolerance for all forms of irregular migration, especially involving Oyo State as a source, destination, or transit point.

He noted that the 1,000 hectares were allocated through the state’s Ministry of Agriculture and are located in Iganna, Itesiwaju Local Government Area. The project is being supported by the National Centre for Migration Policy in collaboration with the European Union.

The initiative will be coordinated by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and aims to offer viable alternatives to risky migration for young people.

Adegoke added that the committee was officially inaugurated by the South-West Coordinator of the NCFRMI, highlighting the Makinde administration’s commitment to tackling the root causes of illegal migration through meaningful, youth-focused programmes.