IOM partners Abia to open zonal office, strengthen diaspora engagement

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is set to establish a temporary South-East and South-South zonal office in Abia State, following an offer by Governor Alex Otti during a visit by the newly appointed IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche.

Speaking in Umuahia on Monday, Mr Otti said the new office would deepen collaboration on migration governance, anti-trafficking initiatives, and diaspora engagement. He noted that while Nigeria receives significant diaspora remittances annually, estimated at more than $20 billion, Abia’s share must be channelled into impactful projects in education, housing, and social development.

The governor also disclosed that some returnees had already arrived in the state, while others were reluctant to come home due to fears over accommodation. He said he had directed the Ministry of Housing to make provisions for such returnees and reaffirmed the state’s zero-tolerance policy for crime, warning that anyone involved in child trafficking or related offences would face severe consequences.

Ms Dimanche said IOM would help Abia implement its migration roadmap under an earlier Memorandum of Understanding, including setting up a diaspora information management system and exploring a diaspora bank to maximize economic benefits. She described migration as inevitable but stressed the need for it to be managed safely and orderly.

During the visit, Mr Otti bestowed the traditional title of Akudo on Ms Dimanche and presented her with Akwete, the state’s signature handwoven fabric, in recognition of IOM’s support for Abia communities.