Bad governance, traffickers pushing Nigerian youths to Libya — Soyombo

Fisayo Soyombo, investigative journalist and founder/editor-in-chief of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism, recently shared his harrowing experience as a migrant traveling to Libya. He reveals that he embarked on the journey to warn Nigerians about the dangers and hardships associated with such treks. According to Soyombo, around 80,000 Nigerians attempt the dangerous journey annually, with many dying in the Sahara Desert or during the crossing of the Mediterranean Sea.

Only a few manage to reach Libya, and even fewer make it to Europe. Soyombo's investigation highlights three key factors: poor governance, the spread of migration disinformation by traffickers, and the harsh economic conditions in Nigeria. He notes that many migrants give up during the journey due to the unexpected hardships they encounter.

During his investigation, the most challenging moment was trekking in the desert from Al Gatrun to Sabha, where they had to walk for hours without food or water before being abandoned by their "connection man." Soyombo is set to release a photo exhibition, "Desserts from the Deserts," showcasing his experiences and the harsh realities faced by migrants.

The exhibition will run for three days, with the opening event exclusive to invitees and subsequent days open to the public.