IOM Nigeria & Switzerland counterpart Pay Working Visit to PCI Male Shelter in Lagos

On August 25, 2025, the Patriotic Citizen Initiatives (PCI) had the honor of hosting a high-level delegation from IOM Nigeria alongside their counterpart, IOM Switzerland, at the PCI Male Shelter.

The visit was designed to provide the delegation with an opportunity to observe the facility, assess the quality of services provided, and explore areas for further strengthening of interventions aimed at supporting vulnerable migrants and survivors of trafficking.

During the interactive session, Mr. Osita Osemene, Executive Director of PCI, gave a holistic overview of the shelter’s operations. He outlined the range of essential services provided to beneficiaries, including psychosocial support, medical care, skills acquisition, and livelihood empowerment. He also explained the mechanism of referrals from partner organizations, which ensures that survivors are received into the shelter through a structured and collaborative process.

Following his presentation, the delegation embarked on a guided tour of the shelter. They visited the living spaces, counselling rooms, and training areas, gaining first-hand insight into how PCI prioritizes dignity, safety, and empowerment for every individual housed within the facility.

One of the highlights of the tour was the fish pond project, an income-generating activity established within the shelter with support from IOM under the Migrant Protection, Return and Reintegration in Sub-Saharan Africa Project. Survivors are directly involved in managing the pond, processing the fish, and preparing them for sales. Beyond being a source of income, the project serves as a practical tool for livelihood restoration, enabling survivors to acquire entrepreneurship, teamwork, and financial management skills while also contributing to the sustainability of the shelter.

Mr. Osita also drew attention to the use of the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) training materials. This globally recognized methodology equips returned migrants with critical business development skills, preparing them to set up and manage small businesses successfully. It has become a cornerstone of reintegration strategy, ensuring that beneficiaries are not only sheltered but also empowered to build independent and productive futures.

The visit by IOM Switzerland and IOM Nigeria reaffirmed the importance of strong partnerships and shared responsibility in addressing migration challenges. By observing first-hand the impact of PCI’s programs, the delegation expressed appreciation for the innovative, survivor-centered approaches being implemented and emphasized the need to build on these successes for greater impact.

As PCI continues to work tirelessly in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, the organization remains committed to collaborating with partners, strengthening service delivery, and creating pathways for sustainable reintegration.