Nigeria Launches Strategy Against Human Trafficking

On Tuesday, the Federal Government of Nigeria unveiled a renewed strategy to combat human trafficking and irregular migration, coinciding with the voluntary return of over 1,000 Nigerians from crisis routes, including Libya, Lebanon, Morocco, Mali, Egypt, India, and the United Arab Emirates. The initiative aims to dismantle human trafficking networks and provide psychosocial care, healthcare, and livelihood support to returnees.

Sharon Dimanch, Chief Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria, emphasized the need for safe and legal migration pathways. The program, known as the Compass Program, aims to strengthen Nigeria's migration governance architecture and improve policies to protect migrants.

Dr. Bernard Doro, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Poverty Reduction, reiterated the government's commitment to protecting returnees and vulnerable communities.

The event also highlighted the importance of addressing poverty and unemployment as key drivers of irregular migration.