Understanding irregular migration from the socio-cultural context: The implication for social work in Nigeria

Abstract

Like the rest of low- and middle-income countries, Nigeria continues to battle irregular migration, especially among its youth. Amidst the drivers of irregular migration, economic and political factors have received much attention. Using the qualitative data collection method, an in-depth interview (4 respondents) and a focus group discussion (14 participants), the study looked at the socio-cultural factors that trigger youths' irregular migration. The finding provides enough evidence that factors such as belief systems, family and society influence, and maintaining social identity trigger youth to engage in irregular migration. The finding sheds light on social work's development in Nigeria, particularly in its call for local inclusion and understanding of social problems' socio-cultural context. Additionally, it gives insight to social workers as they champion interventions to curb irregular migration. It recommends the inclusion of migration studies in school curricula.