Featured

Why Are Some Nigerians Eager To Migrate?

Published

7 years ago

January 16, 2019

Joyce Esosa, 29, is from Edo but finds herself roaming the streets of Abuja after an attempt to migrate to another country without valid documents failed.
Earlier, she had also made frantic efforts to study medicine in one of the nation’s universities but she was not lucky and she believes something ought to be done quickly because she is ageing.
She finally got involved in discussions with some friends on how Nigerians move to other countries to seek job and comfort in most of European countries, especially, Spain, via crossing the Mediterranean Sea in Libya coasts to the country.
Migrants preparing to cross to Europe through the Mediterranean Sea
Telling her story to justify her decision to travel out, she says “each day in Nigeria feels like hell for me and all I want is an opportunity to travel abroad and make a better living.
“I have nine siblings and I am the third; my father died years back and my mother is a petty plantain trader; life has been very difficult for the family.
“Two of my siblings died due to lack of money; the first one died in an accident where she hawked sachet water.
“Eight months after, I lost the second to a sickness that required blood transfusion and because the family did not have money to buy blood, he had to die.
“I decided to seek a better life for both myself and family at all cost, I ran away from home four years ago.
“I made several attempts to travel out of the country but it never worked out when a friend took me up in Abuja, promising to help me to get a job, only for her to introduce me to different men.’’
Similarly, 34-year old Musa Ahmed, a commercial motorcycle operator from Zamfara believes that people are willing to do anything to improve their living standard, attributing the development to level of poverty in the country.
“That is why the crime is high in Nigeria because it hurts a lot to see your loved ones suffering and you can’t help or do much.
“I live in an uncompleted building with my family; I was a farmer back in Zamfara now in Cross River. I relocated because I wanted a better life for myself and for my family.
“Life is not getting better here either for me and my family, I ride motorcycle in which each drop is N50 and I make at least N1, 500 per day, but it is usually not enough.
“If government can create opportunities and bring down the cost of living, things will get better and Nigerians will not waste time in seeking comfort elsewhere,’’ he said.
Observers, therefore, note that poverty, lack of job opportunities and uncertainty about life, somewhat, contribute to the desire of some Nigerians to flee the country.
The note that although government authorities and other stakeholders have been warning against illegal migration on many occasions, some people are bent on such mission that, in most cases, can end in regret.
Yet, statistics from European Union show that Nigeria has the fifth highest number of citizens illegally migrating to Europe in the search for illusive greener pastures.
Worried by the development, the Chief Executive Officer of a non-governmental organisation, Connected Development, Mr Hamzat Lawal, called on the youth to leverage on the climate change to create sustainable job opportunities using emerging technology instead of travelling overseas.
Lawal noted that climate change was a 21st century problem which could also have its advantages to check illegal migration.
He said as much as climate change was viewed as a problem, it was also an opportunity for the country to manage its limited and scare resources.
“We can generate electricity from solar energy or sunlight. We can use new and emerging technology to cook and reduce greenhouse gas; this is how it can become an opportunity.
“Climate change has affected our economy negatively; also our forest cover has been depleted over time by people cutting down trees for fire or furniture.
“The Lake Chad region which used to be a business hub for Nigeria and even other African countries, where they have fishermen and women doing businesses, is no longer so.
“This means that the young energetic people have now migrated and left the region in search of greener pasture whereas they can use new and emerging technology created by climate change to develop in their own country,’’ he said.
Lawal said migration of Nigerians had also increased because of the economic crisis in the country, observing that there were still hope and opportunities.
“We are losing talents and young minds that are supposed to build our growing economy because people are leaving the country because of lack of opportunities,’’ he said.
“Government needs to look at how we can thrive by tapping into new and emerging technologies such as the clean cooking stoves that emit lesser greenhouse gas to engage the youth.
“If we can invest more in solar technology, build capacity and also reduce taxes to businesses, it will create value and jobs.
“If there is an enabling environment where there is hope of prosperity, people will not want to travel out of the country.
“People will not want to leave their comfort zone to undertake the risk of travelling for days and putting their lives in danger.
“But, because things are not the way they should be, that is why people are willing to take all manner of risks to better their lives; simply because they believe that there is hope and prosperity on the other side,’’ he observed.
In the light of this, Mr Nnimmo Bassey, an environmentalist, advised the Federal Government to implement existing expert research findings to recharge the Lake Chad basin.
Bassey, the Executive Director, Environmental Rights Action, an environmental rights advocacy group, observed that it was a good development that Germany offered to pump 18 billion Euros to recharge the Lake Chad Basin.
He said implementing the research findings, already analysed by experts, would contribute to the success of the project.
The environmentalist, who attributed the shrinking of the lake largely to climate change, said that research had been conducted over the years on ways to tackle the problem.
Bassey, therefore, commended Nigerian and German governments for their efforts to revive the lake, noting that vibrant Lake Chad business communities would, to some extent, check illegal migration among Nigerian youths.
“We do not have details of what the assistance from Germany will be directed to, but we hope it addresses the research findings of appropriate bodies that have worked on the challenge.
“There is the need to rebuild the overall environment but this must be phased with short, medium and long term outlays.
“Efforts must be made holistically with all countries in the Lake Chad basin playing their roles.
“There is urgent need for us to step up our watershed management because sometimes, we tend to think that water supply is inexhaustible,’’ he said.
Bassey suggested intensive planting of indigenous trees and crops that were well adapted to the region to protect watersheds and the environment.
All the same, concerned citizens believe that implementation of good policies and making the governance process more citizen-friendly, are some of the methods of discouraging more Nigerians from travelling abroad illegally.
Onyegbula writes for News Agency of Nigeria.

Jessica Onyegbula

Featured

WASSCE: RSG Distributes Science Materials To Secondary Schools

Published

8 hours ago

May 13, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Government has distributed science equipment and materials to all senior secondary schools across the state to support students during the ongoing West African Examinations Council exams and to strengthen practical learning.

Flagging off the distribution at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board premises in Port Harcourt, on Monday, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, said the move demonstrates Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to improving education standards in the State.

Nwagor said the materials were approved and provided by the state government specifically to boost the teaching and learning of science subjects, describing science education as the foundation for technological advancement, innovation, and national development.

“No society can compete globally without deliberate investment in science and technology,” the Commissioner stated.

He commended the governor for consistently prioritising the education sector by providing tools needed for effective teaching and hands-on learning.

The Commissioner directed principals to ensure that the equipment are used strictly for practical lessons in their schools, warning that any principal or administrator found diverting, hoarding, or selling the materials wil face disciplinary action under public service regulations.

Nwagor also warned against examination malpractice, saying any principal found aiding or encouraging malpractices will be decisively sanctioned.

“We must collectively restore the dignity and credibility of our educational system,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, Tony Egwurugwu, urged school heads to make judicious use of the materials for students’ benefit.

He thanked the State Government for providing the resources, and assured that monitoring mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the materials serve their intended purpose.

In his own remarks, a Board Member for Technical Education, Nwisabari Bani Samuel, expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritising education and acknowledged the Commissioner’s role in advancing education development in the State.

He said the distribution covers all senior secondary schools in the State and is intended to improve students’ performance in both internal and external science examinations.

Akujobi Amadi

Featured

Fubara Hails Workers’ Resilience, Dedication In Rivers …Hails Tinubu’s Economic Reform

Published

1 week ago

May 6, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has commended workers in the State for their resilience, dedication, and invaluable contributions to development in the State.

Fubara gave the commendation during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration at Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt, last Friday.

Represented by his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, the governor noted that Workers’ Day, which originated from the struggle for an eight-hour workday in the United States, has evolved into a global event recognising the contributions of workers to national growth and development.

He described workers as the backbone of sustainable development, saying no society can thrive without their efforts.

Fubara commended Rivers workers for their loyalty and commitment to service, noting that workers play vital roles across key sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure and industry.

He noted that their contributions have enhanced access to quality education and healthcare, supported job creation, and stimulated economic activities across the State.

While acknowledging the economic challenges faced by many workers, including the rising cost of living, Fubara assured that the the State Government remains committed to implementing policies that will enhance workers’ welfare and overall well-being.

The governor also hailed the bold and daring economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu which, he said, have stabilized the economy, enhanced foreign exchange liquidity, lowered inflation, and achieved significant growth in the nation’s gross domestic product.

He noted that, in addition to raising the minimum wage, the President recently approved new welfare incentives for federal civil servants.

“Our economy is on an unstoppable positive path under our President, and it can only improve further for the nation and everyone. Let us continue supporting the policies and programmes of Mr President,” he said.

Fubara highlighted the importance of workers in revenue generation and governance, noting that taxes paid by workers enable government to provide security and essential social services.

He reaffirmed the State Government’s recognition of labour as a critical partner in achieving its development blueprint, appreciating workers’ daily contributions to building a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Rivers State.

The governor urged the organised labour to use the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to the progress of the State, while continuing to advocate for democracy, social justice, and improved welfare for workers.

He also expressed gratitude to workers for their service to the State and the nation, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their contributions to development.

In his address, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, commended Fubara for his steadfastness, genuine commitment, and passion for workers in the State.

He highlighted key achievements of the administration, including the implementation of the National Minimum Wage Act, the renovation of the State Secretariat, the reopening of the Rivers State Transport Company (RTC), and the consistent payment of end-of-year bonuses to public workers.

Comrade Agwanwor noted that workers, as drivers of productivity, understand the challenges involved in building a prosperous Rivers State, stressing that they are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the State.

“We have resolved not to continue complaining and lamenting while challenges persist. Instead, we must take the initiative, step out of relative obscurity, and rediscover the mission and destiny of our dear state,” he said.

Featured

Fubara Pledges Support For Corporate Organisations In Rivers …Says PPP Business Model Responsible For NLNG’s Success

Published

1 month ago

April 10, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged the continued support of his administration for the Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited.

Fubara gave the assurance while receiving the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NLNG, Mr Adeleye Falade, who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt.

He assured that his administration would continue to contribute its own quota in support of the NLNG.

According to him, the success of the organisation is equally the success of the government of Rivers State and the success of the Federal Government.

“Our duty is to make sure that we support whoever is operating in our state. We are the ones here. If we don’t support you and you don’t succeed, we also will not succeed and Mr President will also not succeed.

“So, the success of your establishment is the success of our state, and overall success of Nigeria. So you can count on our support. Wherever you think we need to come in to support you, please do not hesitate to call upon us.

“You just mentioned here that your predecessor left a handover note showcasing the level of support that he got from the state. It is not going to be different in your own case. I can assure you that. I will also ensure that other units of the government will liaise with you when necessary. So even if you can’t get to me, you can always get to them and if there is anything we can do to help your establishment succeed, we will do it for you,” he said.

The governor attributed the success of the NLNG to the Public Private Partnership ( PPP) business model adopted by the Federal Government and the multinational oil companies.

The NLNG is jointly owned by Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) with 49%, Shell Gas B.V. with 25.6%, Total LNG Nigeria Ltd with 15%, and Eni International with 10.4%.

The partnership model allows for shared risks, costs, and expertise in the LNG sector.

The governor noted that the NLNG has not only survived the difficult business environment but has made sustained progress in the nearly three decades of its existence.

According to him, the decision of the Federal Government to allow the multinational oil companies who have the needed expertise to run the establishment while government plays a supervisory role over it has largely been responsible for its success.

“I’m very proud to say that if there is one establishment that has shown resilience, that has survived in the face of all the political issues prevalent in this country, it is the NLNG. And what is the reason? The reason is very simple. Government has no business in business. That is the truth. Leave the business for those people who can operate it. Let the government play its supervisory role to ensure that there is compliance with the laws; ensure that standards are maintained and also ensure that the right people with the needed expertise are at the helm of affairs. That’s all. I think that is the reason why we still record a lot of successes in NLNG,” he said.

In his opening remark, the new NLNG boss, Mr Adeleye Falade, who led other top officials of the company on the visit, expressed appreciation to the governor for granting them audience, and appealed to the State Government to continue to support the organisation.

“We appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and deepen this important relationship.We deeply value the support the Rivers State Government continues to extend in fostering an enabling operating environment for businesses. NLNG remains deliberate in its contribution to Nigeria’s development, and Rivers State, our primary host, continues to be central to that commitment,” he said.

Falade said the company has continued to work with its host communities to strengthen their capacity to identify, prioritise, and deliver sustainable development initiatives that create lasting impact.

According to him, communities including Amadi-ama, Abua, Ekpeye, Okrika, Kalabari, and Emohua have continued to benefit from this model.

He said that beyond community infrastructure, the NLNG has sustained investments in economic empowerment through initiatives such as Vocational Innovation and Business Empowerment Scheme (VIBES) and Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) schemes.

These, he said, were designed to support small businesses, build capacity, and stimulate local enterprise across the state.

Among officials of the company who accompanied the Managing Director were General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr Sophia Horsfall; Manager, Government Relations, Mr Abdul Umar; Manager, Community Relations, Dr. Yemi Adeyemi; Head of Government Relations, Mr Mike Igoni; Head of Community Liaison and Engagement, Chief Ifeanyi Umeh.

Others are Technical Assistant to Executive Leadership, Mr Hassan Saleh; Senior Media and Publicity Advisor, Mr Emma Nwatu; Government Relations Advisor, Miss Homa Nmegbu; Senior Government Relations Advisor, Mrs Kate Allison, and Audio -Visual Advisor, Mr Dawood Ahmed.