- Sanwo-Olu Restates Lagos’ Dedication to Tackling Migration, Trafficking Challenges
- Hamzat emphasized the importance of providing practical and impactful support
- Ahmed commended Lagos for its leadership in addressing issues related to trafficking and migration
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to protecting vulnerable populations and promoting Nigeria as a responsible and forward-thinking voice in global migration discussions.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the governor expressed Lagos State’s willingness to work closely with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) to address major challenges related to migration, human trafficking, and displacement.
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This commitment was made public through a statement issued by Tunde Alao, Senior Special Assistant on Media in the Office of the Deputy Governor. It followed a courtesy visit by the Federal Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of NCFRMI, Hon. Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, to the Deputy Governor’s office in Alausa, Ikeja.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat emphasized the importance of providing practical and impactful support, not only for displaced persons and migrants but also for other vulnerable groups, particularly children.
According to the governor, the Commission has a role to play in reshaping negative global perceptions of Nigeria by tackling the misconduct of a few individuals and the exploitation of at-risk youths.
He also encouraged the Commission to introduce nationwide sign language awareness programs and include distress signal education in public safety campaigns across schools, airports, and law enforcement bodies. This, he said, is especially necessary in response to rising cases of kidnapping and trafficking.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed concern about the growing number of Nigerian youths pursuing irregular migration, often motivated by unrealistic expectations about life in Europe and other Western nations.
“Many young Nigerians leave with false hopes and either return with shattered dreams or never return at all,” he said. He added that recent visa restrictions in certain countries reflect efforts to curb unregulated migration and human trafficking.
He called on NCFRMI to partner with the state in creating awareness at the community level by working with traditional leaders, schools, and grassroots organizations.
“If families are properly informed, they are less likely to sell assets or take out loans to fund dangerous journeys,” he said.
Earlier, Federal Commissioner Aliyu Tijani Ahmed stated that his visit aimed to secure Lagos State’s support in hosting the upcoming Africa Europe Intercontinental Meeting on Human Trafficking, scheduled to take place in Lagos this November.
He shared that over 100 delegates from Africa and Europe are expected to attend the summit, which will focus on practical strategies to combat cross-border human trafficking.
He appealed to the state government for assistance with logistics, transportation, and security to ensure the event’s success.
Ahmed commended Lagos for its leadership in addressing issues related to trafficking and migration. He explained that Lagos was selected as the summit’s host city due to its proactive efforts and strong performance in these areas.
Both Lagos State and NCFRMI expressed hope that their collaboration will strengthen efforts to protect vulnerable populations and enhance Nigeria’s global image in migration and human rights matters.
