On Tuesday September 16, 2025, a groundbreaking innovation by a Youth Led Organization, ILEAD AFRICA took place at the United Nations House, Abuja.
The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (represented) announced the launch of the Africa’s first chatbox designed to support safe migration and combat human trafficking.
Shortly afterwards was the presentation of the overview of the innovation by ILEAD AFRICA
Aside the goodwill messages delivered by the International Organisations, WOTCLEF Executive Director, lent her voice to the tool which connects Migrants to hotlines, Shelter and much more. A plus to this is that the timely chatbox can be accessed across the ECOWAS and Africa 24 hours.
Below is the speech made by WOTCLEF Head, Imaobong Ladipo Sanusi:
“We are aware that 60% of Smuggling of Migrants (SOM) is from Nigeria with the average age of 30 years.
According to an IOM report, “2,452 deaths documented in the Mediterranean Sea in 2024 are not the largest annual total ever, but the large number shows the need for adequate search and rescue systems as well as the need for safe and regular migration routes as alternatives to this risky journey”
Migration is a human right but must be done in a safe orderly and regular manner
We must look at migration with the lens of innovation and development and implement the Free Movement and Migration (FMM)
Borders are more than just geographic location, it facilitates legitimate trade to foster regional development and integration
We must say no to the loss of lives at the seas, desert, and difficult terrain and topography
What about the cold, the frost bite, loss of documents, abuse, rape, exploitations victims go through due to irregular migration that sometimes lead to human trafficking
To the ILead Africa Team, kudos for driving sustainable impacts as in the Sustainable Development Goals especially SDGs 8, 9 and 17 – Decent Work, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and Partnership for the Goal respectively
Innovation is the heartbeat of progress.
It’s the spark that ignites transformation, the catalyst that propels societies forward.
In a world that’s evolving at an unprecedented pace, embracing innovation is not just an option – it’s a necessity for growth, relevance, and success.
Call to Action
Innovation isn’t confined to labs or tech hubs – it’s a mindset that can be cultivated anywhere.
Let’s champion a culture of innovation, where ideas are explored, and creativity is unleashed.
By doing so, we pave the way for a brighter, more dynamic future.
Congratulations to ILead African on this feat
Drive on with your mantras:
Courage
Collaboration
Consistency
Thank you.
