Edo Diaspora Agency to set up database for indigenes abroad
Edo Diaspora Agency says it has concluded plans to coordinate and manage a database for Edo indigenes in the diaspora.
Dr Loretta Ogboro-Okor, the first Director General of the new Agency created by Gov. Monday Okpebholo, disclosed this in Benin on Thursday during a press conference.
Ogboro-Okor said that the plan aligned with the agency’s key objectives, adding that only a well-organised database of Edo people abroad would help plan social welfare and implement beneficial policies for the diaspora community.
“With this database of our people abroad, we want to bring everyone together in a portal with each person’s registered code number.
“We will be able to identify where every Edo indigene resides, and that will help us strengthen relations and foster growth and development back home,” she said.
The director general also hinted that the agency would address welfare issues of Edo indigenes abroad, noting their experiences have often been filled with challenges.
She emphasised that the agency, as part of its objectives, would work to ensure diaspora remittances and investments continue to grow significantly for the state.
She explained that the agency was established to serve as a bridge between diaspora indigenes and the state government with a view to harnessing their skills, experience, and resources.
“This agency will work tirelessly to create sustainable channels for engagement, collaboration, and investment between the diaspora and our local institutions,” she added.
Ogboro-Okor further said that the agency would collaborate with stakeholders to tackle irregular migration and the menace of human trafficking affecting the state.
“We understand the challenges with human trafficking in Edo, so we will work with other MDAs to develop strong and lasting solutions to the problem.
“In many countries, we have our people in prisons for various reasons; others trafficked are refusing rescue due to deep psychological issues.
“Edo often accounts for about 40 to 60 per cent of returned migrants. Plans are in place to engage stakeholders and rescue more victims,” she said.
She appreciated the state government for the opportunity to serve and for believing in her capacity to deliver on the agency’s mandate.
She also commended the resilience, patriotism, and unwavering commitment of the diaspora community over the years towards the growth and welfare of the state.
Present at the press conference were representatives of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), NAPTIP, Immigration Services, and several other partners
