The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Edward Kallon, on Tuesday, reiterated the United Nations’ commitment to the fight against Coronavirus (COVID-19) and irregular migration in Edo.
Kallon stated this in Benin when he led members of his entourage on a courtesy visit to Gov. Godwin Obaseki in Edo State Government House, Benin.
He said that the visit was to re-enforce partnership with Edo State Government and to see how they could work better in the fight against COVID-19.
He further said that the other aim of their visit was to discuss ideas that would put an end to irregular migration among youths in Edo.
In his remarks, Gov. Obaseki thanked Kallon and his entourage for their visit and used the occasion to highlight some programs and initiatives his administration had put in place to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and curbing irregular migration among youths.
Obaseki, who was represented by his Deputy, Mr. Philip Shaibu, said the administration was taking advantage of the state’s geographical location as a center point to the nation in terms of the road network.
He noted that the present administration would do its best to ensures a business-friendly environment that would encourage investment in the state.
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He said “Before we came on board, our youths were migrating in their large numbers abroad passing through the dehumanizing situation to reach Europe, but we said no, it is dangerous for them to risk their lives.
“We have changed the narrative in discouraging our youths from taken dangerous route abroad rather we have created legal means, ensuring they are skilled and embarked such journey legally without putting their lives inline”
He commended the cooperation of World Health Organizations (WHO) for their support in fighting the pandemic in the state, stressing that the partnership yielded results as casualty became minimal.
“We have transformed the education sector starting from the basic education. We introduced Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EDOBEST) where we have efficiently deployed and utilize technology to impact knowledge on our pupils.
“They can now read and write with the aid of the technology introduced. The activities of teachers can easily be monitored, they have also benefited as we have enhanced their skills using technology as well,” he said.
