The Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria (CISWPN) has expressed concern over the rising challenges of irregular migration and human trafficking, describing them as pressing social problems with far-reaching national implications. The institute’s National President and Chairman of Council, Prof. Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John, made this known at the ongoing 16th International Conference on Social Work in Enugu.
According to Prof. Obashoro-John, the conference provides a platform for professionals and stakeholders to discuss practical solutions to issues relating to migration, trafficking, and youth vulnerability. The CISWPN, which was established in 2009 and chartered in 2022, has grown from an initial 200 members to over 15,000 members worldwide. The institute collaborates with international partners, including USAID, UKAID, and Italian organizations, to support projects focused on women’s rights, child welfare, and vulnerable groups.
This year’s conference focuses on irregular migration and human trafficking, which have become critical social concerns in Nigeria. Prof. Obashoro-John emphasized that irregular migration is not just an economic problem, but a social issue rooted in questions of dignity, justice, and human rights. She noted that people migrate irregularly due to feelings of alienation, hopelessness, or deprivation of opportunities at home.
The CISWPN president stressed the need for stronger collaboration among local and international partners to address these issues. While acknowledging the efforts of agencies such as NAPTIP and several NGOs, she urged the government to create more sustainable opportunities for young Nigerians. The conference, which is being attended by delegates from across Nigeria, aims to find practical solutions to these pressing social problems.
The CISWPN’s commitment to tackling irregular migration and human trafficking is significant, given the institute’s growing membership and international collaborations. As the conference continues, it is expected that stakeholders will engage in fruitful discussions and identify effective strategies to address these critical social concerns. By working together, it is possible to create a better future for young Nigerians and reduce the allure of irregular migration. The outcomes of the conference will be closely watched, as Nigeria and other countries grapple with the complex issues of migration and human trafficking.
