The Directorate General of the Immigration Office in Belgium, Mr. Freddy Roosemont, has revealed that approximately 30% of Nigerian migrants seeking asylum in Belgium are from Edo State. Roosemont disclosed this during a press conference held in Benin City, expressing concern over the negative impact it has on Nigeria’s image.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Roosemont highlighted that an additional 20% of asylum seekers in Belgium originate from Lagos State. The press conference, organized in collaboration with the Pathfinder Justice Initiative (PJI), aimed to raise awareness about the adverse effects of irregular migration.
“We have noticed that more and more Nigerians are seeking asylum in Belgium. In 2022, about 370 Nigerians sought asylum, while in 2023, about 360 also requested asylum,” Roosemont stated. “30 percent are from Edo, 20 percent from Lagos, while the remaining 50 percent are from other states in Nigeria.”
Roosemont clarified that some Nigerians arrive in Belgium legally, while others take the perilous route through the Mediterranean Sea. However, he emphasized that economic motives are not considered valid reasons for asylum, and the process is determined based on the Geneva Convention.
“Some have come to Belgium by legal means while others came through the Mediterranean Sea. Once in Belgium, they apply for asylum, but this makes little sense. Asylum is determined on the basis of the Geneva Convention, and economic motives are not included,” he explained.
The significant rates of human trafficking and asylum seekers from Edo State compared to other Nigerian states have prompted the need for awareness campaigns promoting safe migration. Roosemont cautioned Nigerians against falling prey to human traffickers promising employment opportunities in Belgium, emphasizing that the Belgian job market is already saturated. He mentioned that about 5,000 Nigerians are legally residing in Belgium, and the government supports legal migration.
Ruth Benson-Idahosa, Executive Director of PJI, called for support from Non-Governmental Organizations in creating awareness about safe migration initiatives. She highlighted the “Safe Travelling Awareness for At-risk Youth (S.T.A.A.Y)” initiative, launched by the Belgium Ministry of Interior in partnership with PJI, which aims to provide safe travel awareness for Nigerian youths.
“People need to understand the reasons they need to stay in Nigeria. The initiative is also about informing Nigerians about skills and job opportunities in the country and the different organizations offering these opportunities,” Idahosa added.
