Hon Mabinty Fatmata Funna, an astute female APC and a representative of ECOWAS Parliament, on 6th July 2024, made the proposal to tackle illegal youth migration.

It is an effort to address the critical issue of illegal youth migration among member states in West Africa.

In her presentation, Hon Funna emphasized the need for a robust economic development and for the possibility of job creation. That is if staretegies are implemented.

She recommended for a multifaceted approach that comprises the promotion of entrepreneurship, investment in education and skills development, economic diversification, improving the business environment, support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), investing in infrastructure, promoting regional integration, addressing political instability, upgrading the digital economy, and encouraging public-private partnerships (PPP) among member states.

Hon Mabinty Fatmata Funna concluded her presentation by urging ECOWAS’ member states to adopt a holistic approach in addressing the root causes of youth migration to most European countries to seek greener pastures.

She stressed the importance of addressing the factors that compel young people to risk their lives in search of better opportunities overseas.