The Nigerian Community Mantova (NCM), Italy, has intensified its efforts at promoting the social integration and empowerment of Nigerians living in the European country.

The community over the weekend in Mantova, Italy, in a seminar with the theme: ‘Acquiring Information for a Better Life,’ advised Nigerian immigrants to conduct researches and get information about the country as they settle down.

In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Community Mantova, Abolaji Adedayo, stressed the importance of information as a tool for personal development and successful integration into society.

According to him, access to accurate information on health, family life, housing, finances and education enables individuals to make informed decisions capable of improving their quality of life.

Adedayo noted that understanding the value of information was particularly important for migrants seeking to integrate and interact effectively within their host communities.

He described the event as a significant milestone necessary for migrants.

He said: “Recognising that knowledge is power can lead to personal empowerment. Accessing information about health, family life, housing, finances and education enables individuals to make informed decisions that can improve their quality of life.”

In her presentation, the President, Ezi-Nwanneigbo Women Association Mantova (EWAM), Italy, Ebere Echendu, lauded the Nigerian Community Mantova for its contributions to the socio-cultural development of Nigerians in the region over the years.

She said the association’s track record in promoting unity and community development informed EWAM’s decision to partner with it for the seminar.

Echendu explained that EWAM was positioned to promote integration among women, foster love, peace and unity, create awareness and help change negative narratives about migrant communities.

She further emphasised the need for women to play active roles in community development while supporting one another in adapting to life in Italy.

Echendu also paid tribute to the association’s immediate past President, Patricia Osas, for her pioneering leadership and efforts in strengthening the organisation.

Besides, one of the speakers, Erika Trecco, an educationalist with the La Vela Centre for Families, said the theme of the seminar aligned with the centre’s mission of supporting individuals and families.

According to her, families often required more than access to services, .

Trecco noted that many people face educational, social and bureaucratic challenges and could easily feel isolated if they lacked adequate information and support networks.

Also speaking, real estate professional, Renza Vignoli, provided participants with practical insights into building a sustainable future in Italy.

She explained opportunities available within Italy’s real estate sector, including how individuals could pursue careers as property agents.

The event brought together community leaders, professionals and members of the Nigerians in the diaspora.