Nigeria Enhances Strategies to Combat Illegal Migration and Human Trafficking
The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a comprehensive strategy aimed at tackling illegal migration and dismantling networks involved in human trafficking. Officials are sounding the alarm about escalating economic hardships and the growing use of digital platforms by traffickers, which are increasingly exposing vulnerable populations—particularly women and youth—to exploitation both domestically and abroad, including in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
This renewed commitment coincides with the fifth anniversary of the Comprehensive Protection, Reintegration and Assistance for Migrants and Communities (COMPASS) program. Since its inception, over 1,000 stranded Nigerians have voluntarily returned from countries such as Libya, Lebanon, Morocco, Mali, Egypt, India, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Additionally, more than 900 vulnerable returnees have received crucial services including psychosocial care, medical assistance, and livelihood support to help them rebuild their lives.
Officials warn that human trafficking syndicates are becoming more sophisticated, leveraging technology, along with widespread poverty and unemployment, to attract desperate Nigerians to perilous migration routes. These individuals often find themselves ensnared in forced labor or subjected to sexual exploitation and other grave abuses.
During a recent commemorative event, Sharon Dimanche, head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) delegation in Nigeria, emphasized that the core issue lies not in migration itself but in the absence of safe and legal pathways for migrants. She noted that the real challenge is to facilitate safe, orderly, and dignified migration.
Dimanche highlighted the impact of the COMPASS program, which has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s migration governance by improving policy coordination and institutional responses, all while centering the protection of migrants in its framework. She shared the story of “Joy,” a Nigerian woman who endured severe exploitation as a trafficking victim but has since transformed her life through the support provided by the IOM. Now a successful entrepreneur, Joy runs a fashion business that employs several young women.
Dr. Bernard Dollo, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding returning migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, and vulnerable communities. He shared that the government’s new initiative, “One Humanitarian, One Poverty Reduction,” is aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s New Hope Agenda, which aims to merge humanitarian efforts with long-term poverty alleviation strategies.
Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, stressed the disproportionate burden faced by women and children in the context of illegal migration and human trafficking. A ministry representative revealed that through the COMPASS program, over 1,000 stranded Nigerians have successfully returned home, with efforts also focused on bolstering institutional responses to human trafficking and forced migration.
Furthermore, the importance of providing sustainable opportunities for Nigeria’s youth was highlighted by representatives from the Ministry of Youth Development. Their commitment to collaborating with the IOM and other development partners includes expanding entrepreneurial programs aimed at discouraging dangerous migration. During the event, Bengt van Roosdrecht, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria, also announced an initiative that utilizes soccer to equip young Nigerians with coaching skills while educating communities on the perils of irregular migration.
Van Roosdrecht emphasized that through COMPASS, stakeholders are not only fortifying institutional capacities but are also dedicated to protecting vulnerable individuals, supporting survivors, and preventing future trafficking. He noted the critical nature of a collaborative approach to remain ahead of evolving trafficking tactics.
Binta Bello, Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), recognized the COMPASS program as a pivotal partnership in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against human trafficking. She urged for enhanced collaboration among governments, international organizations, civil societies, and local communities to effectively counteract the risks posed by evolving trafficking networks.
The launch of this initiative comes amidst rising concerns over the perilous journeys many Nigerians undertake across treacherous terrains in search of better economic prospects. With many lives lost and others rescued from dire situations, stakeholders at the event collectively agreed on the urgency of addressing underlying issues such as poverty and unemployment while strengthening law enforcement to combat illegal migration.
