By Chinedum Treasure
A Nigerian businessman based in South Africa’s North West Province, Chief Isaac Morba, has cautioned Nigerian youths against embarking on dangerous irregular migration routes, describing the journey through Libya and the Sahara Desert as “a voluntary trip to death.”
Speaking during a podcast organised by the Umuezeanya Youth Association, Morba recounted his failed attempt to reach Europe through Libya in 1999, revealing that he survived only by divine intervention.
“Hundreds, if not thousands, of Nigerian youths have died in the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea. I survived by God’s grace, but if you ask me today, I will tell you—it is simply not worth it,” he said.
Morba explained that his dream of reaching Europe came to an abrupt end after he arrived in Libya during the era of former leader Muammar Gaddafi, forcing him to return to Nigeria.
He later moved to Pakistan in search of better opportunities, but after three difficult years without success, he relocated to South Africa.
According to him, he has now spent more than 15 years in South Africa, where he operates a legitimate automobile tyre and vehicle accessories business.
Warning against the worsening situation in Libya, Morba said the country has become even more perilous for African migrants since the fall of Gaddafi.
“Today, Libya has become a nightmare for Africans trying to reach Europe. No matter what anyone tells you, don’t go to Libya,” he warned.
He further disclosed that many desperate migrants are deceived by trusted contacts who promise assistance abroad but eventually abandon or exploit them.
Morba urged Nigerian youths to embrace only legal migration pathways through education, employment or business rather than risking their lives on irregular routes.
At the end of the three-hour interactive session, the Umuezeanya Youth Association presented him with a Certificate of Commendation in recognition of his mentorship and commitment to inspiring young people.
Tags: Migration, LibyaRoute, SouthAfrica Nigerian, Youths, Human Interest
