According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), Western Africa hosted 7.64 million international migrants in mid-year 2020.

Almost 34 per cent (2.6 million) lived in Côte d’Ivoire and 17 per cent (1.3 million) in Nigeria (UN DESA, 2020). Internally, intra-regionally, continentally, and intentionally, the migratory patterns are observed to take its largest stock.

The highest number of migrants in West Africa focuses much on intra-regional movements and the voyage towards Northern Africa and Europe.

Following the quest to seek better economic opportunities outside the region, labour mobility over the last decade has also seen an upsurge.

What clear risks does irregular migration pose to migrants and their communities?

What are the clear restoration, reintegration, mentorship, and advocacy assistance that can be given to migrants to support and intervene for them?

Let’s join Miss Osato Mary Igbinosun a migration expert as she shares more insight