The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has stressed the need for refugees to thrive through the provision of social protection by the state.
Sanwo-Olu stated this on Monday during the signing of the declaration of Lagos as a city with refugees to commemorate the 2022 World Refugees Day.
He said, “Refugees are not the problem, we here are the problem. We the senators, your leaders, and your community heads who refuse to agree to solve whatever disputes that occur and listen to solutions, because there will always be disputes.
“But normally, what should happen is that every form of disagreement should be resolved because not resolving them will lead to war, strife and displacement.
“Refugees are hardworking and self-motivated people; all they are looking for is a space to thrive, a shoulder to cry on and once you give them that social protection, they will blossom and be willing to contribute their own quota to their host communities.
“Lagos remains a land of big opportunities for all and that is why as your leader and your governor, we will continue to provide that ambiance and space for you, no matter your religion or beliefs or where you come from.”
The Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Imaan Ibrahim-Sulaiman, said, “The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Whoever, wherever, whenever, everyone has the right to seek safety,’ and the import of this message is that every person has the right to seek safety: whoever they are, wherever they come from, and whenever they are forced to flee.”
