According to the UN DESA,2009 report, over 8.4 million migrants move around West Africa. Internally,intra-regionally, continentally, and intentionally, the migratory patterns are observed to take its largest stock.

Migration is defined as the movement of persons away from their place of usual residence, either across an international border or within a State, to a new residence.

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, labor mobility over the last decade has also seen an upsurge.

A UNDP report also estimates that more than half of all migratory patterns within the region are south-south migration.

But what are the other factors beyond economic reasons that are pushing irregular migration?

What are some of the challenges in managing borders in the sub-region?

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?

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