Creating safe pathways key to ending illegal migration, says NOUN VC

Olufemi Peters, the vice-chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), has called for the creation of safe, legal pathways for migration as a critical step towards addressing the growing issue of illegal migration.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 international conference on migration and sustainable Development on Tuesday, Peters highlighted that while migration is a centuries-old phenomenon, it has become increasingly complex due to rising global challenges such as climate change, conflict, and economic instability.

He noted that while migration holds the potential to drive innovation and economic growth, its unmanaged form—especially irregular migration—has led to humanitarian crises, including tragic loss of life and exploitation by traffickers.

The VC called for global cooperation and the establishment of better legal frameworks to protect migrants and provide them with safer, legal pathways to migrate.

“We must shift the narrative on migration from viewing it as a threat to embracing it as a catalyst for sustainable development,” he said.

He pointed to the United States as a model, where migrants have been key to driving social and economic progress, contributing both labor and innovation.

He also acknowledged the positive impact of remittances sent by migrants back to their home countries, which can significantly reduce poverty.

As climate change accelerates, Peters warned that “climate migration” is rapidly becoming a new reality, displacing millions due to extreme weather events like floods and droughts.

He stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of migration and urged the creation of systems that allow for controlled migration while ensuring migrants’ safety and rights.

He also made a special appeal for additional funding to support the Centre of Excellence in Migration and Global Studies (CEMGS) at NOUN, thanking the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for its initial seed funding and praising the Centre for its impactful work in researching and discussing contemporary migrant issues.

The Centre, he noted, has hosted monthly seminars and webinars on migration topics, playing a pioneering role in addressing migration challenges in the country.

“Migration must not merely be seen as a survival strategy, but a source of opportunity, equity, and shared prosperity,” Peters concluded, urging all stakeholders—governments, institutions, and civil society—to work together to shape policies that support migrants’ dignity and well-being.

The conference, which brings together policymakers, academics, and experts in migration and development, will continue to explore solutions that aim to turn migration into a tool for sustainable global development.