Nigeria migrants returnees
By Kingsley Abavo, Benin
The Migrant Project (TMP) has urged members of the community, families and the media to desist from stigmatizing returnees through their actions, words or sensational reports, but to rather humanize their experiences, provide mental and physical support.
TMP made the call in a media toolkit to curb returnee stigma, issued by its headquarters and made available to journalists by Enitan Ibironke, Migration Advocacy Consultant and Media Liaison Officer for TMP.
It outlined different ways in which the media can support the seamless integration of returnees, into their communities.
The toolkit noted that on the part of the media, they should “avoid using stereotypical, negative expressions about returnees as this can create or increase stigma.
Avoid e.g. any sensational story about deportation, and focus on the experiences of returnees.
“Highlight the positive contributions that returning migrants make to Nigeria, by showcasing examples of returnees who have started their own businesses; re – shape public perceptions and knowledge about returnees by providing facts and balanced information.
“Advocate for better reintegration and psychosocial support for returnees.”
It was also stated, that returnees should be encouraged to sign up to ‘The Migrant Project’s’ free and confidential counselling service; for emotional support to help them cope with migration stressors.
TMP works with returnees and communities to reduce the stigma toward Nigerian migrants; returning forcibly or voluntarily from Europe.
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