Returned migrants empowered in Edo
ActionAid Nigeria has empowered 75 returned migrants trained under its “Reconnect Project” with starter packs in Edo State. The beneficiaries were trained in various vocational skills, including fashion design, catering, hairdressing, barbing, and other trades. The 75 beneficiaries received starter packs such as industrial sewing machines, gas cookers, hair dryers, clippers, and ovens, among others. […]
ActionAid Nigeria has empowered 75 returned migrants trained under its “Reconnect Project” with starter packs in Edo State.
The beneficiaries were trained in various vocational skills, including fashion design, catering, hairdressing, barbing, and other trades.
The 75 beneficiaries received starter packs such as industrial sewing machines, gas cookers, hair dryers, clippers, and ovens, among others.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Benin, ActionAid Country Director, Mr Andrew Mamedu, said the initiative was designed to aid the reintegration and empowerment of returnees.
The project is being implemented in Edo and Lagos States, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to him, about 400 persons have been empowered so far, noting that the initiative was also created to enhance their economic livelihoods.
Mamedu cautioned beneficiaries against selling the items provided to them, urging them instead to work hard, become self-reliant, and eventually become employers of labour.
He commended the German Government for its funding support through the GIZ project.
The Head of Programme, Centre for Migration and Development (ZME), Sandra Vermuijten, said the project also covers Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), vulnerable groups, and unemployed youths across target states.
She said the intervention aims to ensure more and better jobs for Nigerians — including those returning from both successful and unsuccessful migration journeys.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Sarah Atikpokpo expressed gratitude to ActionAid and the German Government.
“When my sister told me about this training, I was overjoyed. It has opened a new chapter in my life. All I can say is thank you, ActionAid and GIZ,” she said.