Abuja: European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignot, has reaffirmed the union's commitment to advancing sustainable, rights-based migration governance in Nigeria. The ambassador made this declaration at the 28th National Stakeholders' Consultative Forum (NSCF)/Summit on Trafficking in Persons, held in Abuja. The summit, themed 'Human Trafficking is Organised Crime: End the Exploitation', was organized to mark the 2025 International Day against Human Trafficking, observed annually on July 30.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mignot emphasized the EU's dedication to supporting Nigeria's efforts in promoting sustainable migration practices. He highlighted ongoing projects by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International and Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies (FIAPP) that aim to enhance national systems to prevent exploitation, protect victims, and prosecute offenders.
Mignot announced additional support amounting to 6 million euros to bolster the efforts led by FIAPP and UNODC in combating human trafficking and slavery. He underscored the importance of building resilience within vulnerable communities and institutions to combat the influence of criminal networks. The EU's intervention focuses on cooperation, rule of law, and data-driven action to promote safe and legal migration pathways.
The ambassador stressed the necessity of grounding all efforts in human rights, gender sensitivity, and ethical practices. He called for policies and practices that address the specific realities faced by women, girls, and marginalized populations.
National Security Adviser (NSA), Mr. Nuhu Ribadu, praised the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and its leadership under Hajia Binta Adamu-Bello for their commitment to combating human trafficking. Represented by Hajia Lami Jibril, Ribadu acknowledged the dedication of government institutions and stakeholders working to prevent trafficking, protect vulnerable individuals, and prosecute offenders. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in national response efforts, prioritizing the well-being of the people.
Chairman/CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Mohammed Marwa, highlighted human trafficking as a significant threat to human dignity, national security, and socio-economic stability. Represented by Mr. Shedrack Haruna, Marwa pointed out the interconnectedness of human trafficking with other illicit activities, such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and organized crime. He noted that the same criminal syndicates profiting from human trafficking are involved in the illegal drug trade and other crimes.