Eko Hot Blog reports in a startling revelation that the Belgium government has shed light on the harsh realities faced by Nigerian migrants in the country, emphasizing the perilous journey that many desperate youths undertake in pursuit of a better life.
The Director-General of the Office of Foreigners in Belgium, Mr. Freddy Roosemont, spoke to journalists in Abuja over the weekend, addressing the challenges faced by Nigerian migrants, particularly those who have become stranded and exposed to extreme conditions.
Mr. Roosemont highlighted that Nigeria has the highest number of prostitutes in Belgium, with many of them, along with other illegal migrants, enduring harsh conditions, including sleeping in extremely cold weather.
The official expressed concern about the misleading promises made by traffickers who lure Nigerian youths with false hopes of job opportunities in Europe.
In a plea to the media, he emphasized the dangerous and unrealistic nature of the journey to Europe, stating, “Nigerian youths need to know that the dream to go to Europe, especially Belgium, is not realistic. It is a very dangerous journey.”
The Belgian official warned that the quest for a better life in Europe often leads to the loss of humanity and exposes migrants to dire circumstances.
He urged media outlets to inform the public, particularly the youth in Nigeria, about the harsh realities faced by irregular migrants in Europe.
Roosemont debunked the illusion of a golden fleece in Europe, emphasizing the economic challenges and the global phenomenon of economic meltdown.
He disclosed that the number of asylum seekers in Belgium has risen to 150 and emphasized the low chance of obtaining a resident permit by seeking asylum.
Addressing the difficulties faced by migrants, Roosemont stated, “So, at the moment, we have to limit the reception of asylum seekers only to people who are vulnerable, and that means families and women with children. No man alone, not in that group.”
He highlighted the plight of asylum seekers living on the streets in Brussels, facing sub-zero temperatures, and struggling to survive without assistance.
The Belgian official acknowledged the legal obligation to provide assistance to asylum seekers but noted the challenges due to limited capacity.
He described the situation as painful for Belgium and urged awareness about the harsh realities faced by Nigerian migrants in the pursuit of a better life in Europe.
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