Edo State Partners with Italy to Combat Irregular Migration.
Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria – January 25, 2025– The Edo State Government has announced a new partnership with Italy to tackle the issue of irregular migration among its youth population. The collaboration, spearheaded by the Mattei Plan, a humanitarian aid initiative funded by the Italian government, will focus on skills development and job creation.
The announcement was made Friday at Government House in Benin City during a meeting between Mrs. Edesili Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, and a delegation from Italy led by Dr. Alberto Cilala, a consultant to the European Union and President of Mattei Africa for Humanitarian Aids Initiative.
Mrs. Anani emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that it would "reduce unemployment, create job opportunities, and address human trafficking and irregular migration. It will also enhance education, skills acquisition, agricultural investment, and infrastructural development."
Dr. Cilala detailed the Mattei Plan's components, highlighting training programs in tailoring, furniture-making, shoemaking, and other skills. He confirmed that the Italian government, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Labour, would fully fund the initiative. The plan, he added, focuses on education and training, health, security, agriculture, and renewable energy across several African nations.
Solomon Okoduwa, former Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Government on Anti-Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration, emphasized Edo State's crucial role in this initiative and the strengthening of bilateral relations with Italy under Governor Monday Okpebholo's leadership.
Popular musician Olorogun John Paul, also known as Daddy Showkey and a brand ambassador for the Mattei Plan, praised the program's potential to provide sustainable livelihoods for Edo State residents.
The partnership represents a significant step in Edo State's efforts to combat irregular migration and promote economic development.