The recent repatriation of 600 irregular Nigerian migrants from Chad has sparked calls for the Federal Government to integrate these returnees into the agricultural sector as a means of livelihood and national development.

Experts have emphasized the dual benefits of this initiative, which could not only curb potential criminal activity but also bolster food production and economic growth.

Speaking to AgricNews Digest, Dr. Kunle Omoniyi, a researcher with the International Center for Community Development, Ikeja, urged government authorities at all levels to absorb the returnees into agriculture.

“Reintegrating these individuals into agriculture could be a win-win situation,” Dr. Omoniyi stated. “It would provide them with a means of livelihood while boosting the agricultural sector, a major contributor to Nigeria’s GDP.”

The Federal Government has announced plans to repatriate an additional 20,000 Nigerian refugees from Chad and Cameroon. Experts believe agriculture could play a vital role in reintegrating these individuals into society.de of the Eruwa Farm Settlement, a project aimed at creating thousands of jobs for youths in the Ibarapa region.

Dr. Omoniyi outlined several strategies to facilitate this process, including:

Agricultural Training Programs: Equipping returnees with modern farming techniques and best practices.

Start-Up Support: Providing start-up packs and equipment to help them establish their own farms.

Access to Land and Financing: Ensuring returnees have the necessary resources to start and grow their agricultural ventures.

“By reintegrating these returnees into agriculture, the Federal Government can help them rebuild their lives while contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and development,” Dr. Omoniyi concluded.

Stakeholders have urged swift action to capitalize on this opportunity, emphasizing that reintegration into agriculture could transform the lives of returnees while addressing critical issues like food security and unemployment.