Gov Otti Seeks Structured Support System for Returnees, Partners IOM on Migration Issues

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has called for the establishment of an organised system to support reverse migration, stressing that such a framework would encourage Nigerians abroad to return home with confidence.

Governor Otti made the call on Tuesday while receiving the Chief of Mission of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, during a courtesy visit to his office in Umuahia.

He said many Nigerians in the diaspora desire to return but are often discouraged by the lack of reintegration support.

“Some of them may want to return, but they are afraid of where to even start from. If there are organised systems to receive them, I am confident it will encourage their return. The initiative is a form of reverse migration,” Otti stated.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s zero tolerance for crime, including human trafficking, while highlighting the vital role of diaspora remittances in supporting education, healthcare, and economic growth. He urged the IOM to collaborate with the Abia State Diaspora Commission, which annually convenes stakeholders from across the globe during its December homecoming event.

As part of his commitment, Otti directed the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, to provide the IOM with a temporary office space immediately, pending allocation of a permanent office.

Earlier, IOM Chief of Mission Sharon Dimanche outlined four priority areas for partnership with Abia: combating human trafficking, harnessing diaspora potential, supporting returnees through sustainable reintegration, and improving migration data management.

“We are here to work, and that work should start immediately. We want to establish structures and mechanisms that will make diaspora remittances more impactful in community development,” Dimanche said, while commending Abia for pioneering a Diaspora Commission and tackling migration challenges.

The meeting was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Commissioners, and top aides of the Governor.