From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The federal government and development partners have joined forces to tackle irregular migration and human trafficking, describing the situations as disturbing.
Thr National Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Aliyu Tijani, who disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, ahead of the 2024 National Migration Dialogue (NMD), with the theme: “Beyond Borders: Celebrating Migrants’ Legacy, Protecting Their Rights,” said no stone would be left unturned.
He said NCFRMI and development partners have concluded plans to dialogue on how to tackle irregular migration and human trafficking.
According to him, this year’s event would bring together policymakers, migration experts, civil society organizations, academia, and key stakeholders to deliberate on a theme that resonates the country’s national priorities and aligns with the global agenda for international migrants day.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to “safeguard their rights, provide access to decent work, ensure accurate information, and facilitate safe and dignified migration pathways.
“This theme is closely aligned with the global theme for International Migrants Day, which is “Honoring the Contributions of Migrants and Respecting Their Rights.”
He added: “This year’s dialogue will feature two panel discussions with various intellectuals, practitioners, and civil society representatives.
“These panels will address critical topics, including:Contributions of Migrants to the Socio-Economic Growth of Origin and Destination Countries : This panel will spotlight how migrants’ skills, innovation, and labor contribute to development at home and abroad, while fostering social cohesion and mutual benefits.
“Protection of Migrants’ Rights, Access to Information, Decent Work, and Documentation: discussions will center on ensuring that migrants are informed, protected, and supported to live and work in dignity, with policies that uphold their rights and prevent exploitation.
“Nigeria has a unique position in the migration landscape, as both a major origin and destination country. With a large diaspora contributing significantly to national development through remittances, investments, and innovation, and with numerous migrants and refugees seeking opportunities and safety within our borders, the need for dialogue cannot be overstated.
“Migration is a complex yet transformative phenomenon that touches every aspect of development be it, economic, social, cultural, and environmental.
“As the global community grapples with challenges such as irregular migration, human trafficking, and climate-induced displacement, events like the NMD provide platforms for critical reflection, evidence-based policymaking, and collaboration.
“This year’s dialogue also serves as an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its preparedness and commitment as we take up the chairmanship of the Rabat Process in 2025.
“Every stakeholder in the migration space must contribute to ensuring the success of this presidency, from which Nigeria expects to derive significant benefits, including enhanced partnerships, capacity building, and policy coherence.”