The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, met with a delegation of the United Nations to bolster the government’s efforts at containing the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and further reduce the menace of irregular migration.
The delegation, headed by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Edward Kallon, was received at Government House in Benin City.
Receiving the visitors on behalf of Obaseki, the deputy governor, Rt. Hon. Comr. Philip Shaibu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to containing the pandemic and curbing irregular migration among youths in the state.
He noted that the present administration of Governor Obaseki is putting in place reforms and policies to ensure a business-friendly environment to attract investment into the state.
According to him, “Before we came on board, our youths were migrating in their large numbers abroad, passing through dehumanizing situations to reach Europe but we said no, it’s dangerous for them to risk their lives.
“We have changed the narrative in discouraging our youths from taking dangerous routes abroad; rather we have created legal means, ensuring they are equipped with skills and other means to legally embark on such journeys without putting their lives on the line.”
The governor further commended the World Health Organization for its support to the government’s efforts in fighting COVID-19 pandemic in the state.
He continued: “We have transformed the educational sector, starting from the basic education. We introduced the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EDOBEST) programme, where we have efficiently deployed and utilized technology to impact knowledge on our pupils.
“They can now read and write with the aid of technology. The activities of teachers can easily be monitored; they have also benefited as we have enhanced their skills, using technology.”
On his part, Kallon said the delegation was in Benin to reinforce partnership with the government and to see how they can work better in the fight against COVID-19.
He noted that a part of the aim for the visit was to discuss ideas that would put an end to irregular migration among youths in Edo.