Investment Needed for Improved Migration Governance
The federal government, along with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is advocating for increased investment in migration governance. Their focus is on establishing policies that foster safe, orderly, and regular migration while safeguarding the rights and dignity of vulnerable individuals.
Marking Five Years of the COMPASS Initiative
This call to action was made in Abuja on Tuesday during the celebration of the fifth anniversary of the COMPASS programme, a multi-year migration governance initiative backed by the Dutch government and implemented by IOM.
Aims of the COMPASS Initiative
Launched in 2021, the COMPASS initiative is designed to fortify migration governance systems, enhance collaboration among stakeholders, and tackle the underlying factors contributing to irregular migration in the participating countries.
Shared Responsibility in Migration Management
Sharon Dimanche, Head of the IOM Mission in Nigeria, emphasized that migration is deeply rooted in human history. However, she noted that managing migration in a safe, orderly, and humane manner is a collective responsibility that must be prioritized.
Partnerships Strengthening Migration Systems
Dimanche commended the ongoing support from both the Nigerian and Dutch governments, highlighting that this partnership has significantly bolstered migration systems and improved protective measures for vulnerable migrants.
Future Goals for Migration Policies
“Looking ahead, our mission is clear: we must continue to invest in stronger institutions, effective protection systems, sustainable reintegration programs, and safe migration routes,” she stated. “While we have made progress over the past five years, there’s still much work to be done. Together, we can build a migration system that is humane and inclusive, leaving no one behind.”
Commitment to Vulnerable Populations
Bernard Dorot, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to protecting returning migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other at-risk populations against the dangers associated with irregular migration. He detailed how the Tinubu government’s “One Humanitarian, One Poverty Reduction” framework combines emergency interventions with long-term poverty alleviation efforts.
Migration as a Catalyst for Economic Growth
Dorot explained that when managed correctly, migration can drive economic development. “Migration, if properly managed, opens up opportunities for national growth. We are committed to enhancing systems, increasing livelihood options, and ensuring that returning migrants can restore their lives with dignity,” he noted.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Migration Governance Structure
Bengt van Roosdrecht, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria, pointed out that migration is a fundamentally human issue. He reaffirmed that continued investment in the COMPASS program has significantly reinforced Nigeria’s migration governance framework. The program not only supports survivors of human trafficking but also works to prevent further victimization by traffickers and irregular migrant networks.
Community Engagement and Awareness Initiatives
At the anniversary event, goodwill messages were shared by Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, and Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development. The program’s achievements over the last five years were highlighted through a documentary, alongside testimonials from beneficiaries and a panel discussion focused on community-led strategies to promote safe and regular migration.
Collaboration Among Key Stakeholders
The event saw participation from officials of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), development partners, and civil society organizations. Attendees collectively reaffirmed the importance of strengthening collaboration to establish migration systems that protect vulnerable populations while supporting national development efforts.
