I extend my heartfelt condolences and share in the grief of the families and relatives of the young Somalis who tragically lost their lives in the sea between Algeria and Spain.

This painful incident highlights the real and grave dangers of irregular migration, which continues to claim the lives and futures of our youth young people who were once the hope and wealth of our nation’s future, and from whom we expected leadership and contribution to the rebuilding of our country and its institutions.

I call upon leaders at both the Federal and State levels to prioritize programs that empower and inspire the youth, while also avoiding practices that undermine their morale chief among them corruption, nepotism, insecurity, and political uncertainty.

I strongly urge Somali youth not to risk their lives through dangerous journeys that too often end in death and heartbreak. Instead, they should turn their efforts toward serving their people and contributing to national development. I also urge Somali parents to restrain their children from attempting these perilous migrations that could cost them their lives children who are, after all, their investment and the future of our country.

Finally, I call on the government to take tangible action against this national tragedy by curbing the flow of irregular migration and intensifying awareness campaigns targeting young people, while cracking down on the networks and individuals profiting from this human suffering.