By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
International Organization for Migration (IOM), has reiterated commitment to providing technical support for implementing migration-related programmes and projects in Nigeria and on all other issues of common interest.
The Deputy Chief of Mission, IOM Nigeria, Ms. Paola PACE, disclosed this at the Technical Working Group meeting on Migration and Development for the Review of the National Migration Policy, supported by the Joint Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF) Programme “Strengthening Fact-Based and Data-Driven Migration Governance and Management in Nigeria.”
Ms. PACE, also explained that the evolving nature of migration, caused by economic changes, social conditions, conflicts, and global events, has made it a pivotal issue in global, regional, and national development discourse which need holistic approach towards addressing the situation.
.” As migration patterns and their attendant consequences continue to shift, our collective response must be equally dynamic and multifaceted. To this end, various instruments and frameworks have been developed at local, national, and international levels to manage migration effectively. One landmark framework is the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), adopted in December 2018. The compact which Nigeria has committed to its implementation as a Champion country exemplifies our global commitment to improving migration governance and ensuring migration benefits all parties involved”. She explained.
While commending stakeholders for the efforts towards developing the National Migration Policy, the Deputy Chief of Mission, IOM Nigeria, noted that she was optimistic that the expertise and experience will broaden the scope of the policy review and ensure that all gaps and challenges in the current policy document are fully addressed.
“This meeting represents a pivotal step towards enhancing migration governance in Nigeria. Your expertise, insights, and collaborative spirit are crucial in shaping a policy framework that is both robust and adaptive and capable of addressing current and future migration challenges. Together, we ensure that the revised National Migration Policy meets international standards and resonates with Nigeria’s local realities and aspirations. I am confident that our collective efforts will pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all migrants and the communities they interact with”. She noted
In his remarks, the Federal Commissioner, National Commission For Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, appreciating IOM for all the support towards migration management, noted that the meeting of the Technical Working Group (TWG) is crucial as stakeholders focus on the ongoing review of the National Migration Policy since its inception in 2015.
“Thiis document has been instrumental in guiding our efforts at effective migration management and governance. The current review process is vital to ensure our policies continue to be relevant and effective in addressing the evolving migration dynamics in our country. I would like to take this opportunity to express our profound appreciation to all stakeholders who have participated in the review process thus far. Your dedication and efforts have been instrumental in making significant progress. We are especially grateful to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for their unwavering support, particularly in facilitating the recruitment of a consultant to guide and support the review process. Additionally, we appreciate their assistance in organizing the relevant workshops, consultations, and meetings that have taken place and will continue until the policy is reviewed, ratified, and adopted by the Federal Executive Council (FEC)”. He said
Mr. Ahmed, further explained the objectives of the Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting which aims to update on the progress of the National Migration Policy review
“We intend to expand the review scope by identifying emerging migration trends, challenges, and opportunities that may not have been adequately addressed in the initial review plan. The world is constantly changing, and our policies must adapt to these changes to remain effective. our goal is to initiate and ensure a unified and effective National Migration Policy review. This means bringing together all relevant stakeholders, aligning our efforts, and working collaboratively towards a comprehensive and forward-looking policy. As we move forward, let us remember that the success of this review process depends on our collective efforts and commitment.
The National Migration Policy (NMP), is a document that serves as a comprehensive guide for stakeholders in migration management. It also reflects Nigeria’s unique migration context and aims to guide national efforts coherently and strategically.
The workshop was organised by IOM, National Commission For Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons in partnership with Migration Partnership Trust Fund (MPTF)
