Nigeria and Italy Collaborate to Combat Human Trafficking

On Wednesday, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas of the Nigerian House of Representatives called for a stronger coalition between Nigeria and Italy to combat human trafficking, especially concerning Nigerian women being trafficked to European countries. Abbas made this appeal during a courtesy visit from Italian Ambassador Roberto Mengoni in Abuja.

He highlighted that Italy has been a primary destination for Nigerian migrants and a significant route for trafficking networks exploiting vulnerable individuals. Abbas noted that over the years, Nigerian authorities and international agencies have battled organized trafficking networks, particularly targeting young women.

He pointed out that Edo State in southern Nigeria is a major recruitment hub for traffickers. Abbas urged the Italian government to support policies that create legal migration opportunities for skilled Nigerians.

He also mentioned the establishment of a parliamentary friendship group with Italy to enhance bilateral relations beyond migration, including health, education, and economic cooperation.