Outbreak of Malnutrition: EU Offers Support to Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

The European Union Parliament has decried the perennial malnutrition crisis in Northern Nigeria, promising to stand by Nigeria in addressing the issue.

The promised was made in Wednesday evening by EU parliamentarians who paid a three-day visit to Nigeria.

The leader of a six-member delegation, David MacAllister during a press conference to round up their visit, also urged the three tiers of government to urgently face the health crisis.

MacAllister said: “At the same time, ladies and gentlemen, we are deeply concerned and deeply saddened by the malnutrition crisis, in particular in north-east and north-west Nigeria.

“The European Union stands with Nigeria and the affected populations, mainly children, with the humanitarian support of nearly €50 million this year.

“But a financial commitment from Nigeria’s federal and state governments is also urgently needed to face the crisis. Thousands of children are unemployed.”

He promised that the EU will follow up the situation. “We will certainly follow up in particular on those matters and in particular on the unfolding humanitarian crisis in north-western Nigeria,” added.

He pointed out that Nigeria matters to the EU being the most populous country on the continent and one of its major economies.

He added: “So we do hope that Nigeria can also contribute to play a leading role to strengthen the EU-EU relationship, in particular on the occasion of the EU-EU summit to be held in Angola at the end of November.

“When it comes to your great country, Nigeria, we in the European Union consider Nigeria a strategic partner.”

MacAllister said his stay in Nigeria has brought him closer to unravel some of the 5,000 puzzles about the country.

He quoted an English saying: “Well, I described Nigeria to me as a puzzle of 5,000 pieces, and we have certainly set the frame in the last 48 hours, and every conversation, every briefing, every meeting we had makes me add further pieces together. And what I have always realised is the good English saying, “what is seen is better than a hundred times read”.

He said this applies to Nigeria, adding “We have started to understand better, and our main message will be that we need to be in continued engagement with the European Parliament, not only with the largest country in Africa, but also with democracy.

“Nigeria may not be a perfect democracy. Indeed, in the actual governance, you know that yourself, but this country is a democracy, and that’s why we highly respected our colleagues we met today from the different political parties, and we’re very honoured to not only be received by the President of the Senate, but also by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.”

On the European Union-African Union summit holding in Angola next month, MacAllister said “European Parliament has adopted a resolution, a particular resolution last week in Strasbourg, where the draft version, which was finally adopted between the political groups after three days of negotiations with a broad majority, kind of underlines the European Parliament’s expectation towards this summit.”

He also added: “We would like to see concrete results. We want to foster trade between Europe and Africa. We want to make our development cooperation as effective as possible, and we strongly, in the European Parliament, across party lines, believe that the future of Europe and the future of Africa are so closely linked to each other.

“Your success and the success of Africa will also be our success in Europe and vice versa.

Also speaking, the Head of EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot said EU’s interest is to have a prosperous Nigeria.

Explaining why the EU has been magnanimous to Nigeria albeit ECOWAS, Mignot said “Of course we are doing this also because it is in our interest. Our interest is to have a prosperous, stable and democratic West Africa and in particular the main country in West Africa and in the African continent and Nigeria.

“And also, of course, we need Nigeria to partner with us to defend our common values that we are sharing, defence of natural resources in particular, on the world scene. And we need Nigeria also to make business. We need Nigeria to manage, to gather migration flows. “This is what we are doing. So we have common interests and of course this is what our partnership is based on. Nigeria matters, Nigeria matters to the European Union and our message returning to Europe, returning to Brussels will be that we believe it is time for the European Union to engage more with and in Nigeria.”

On the issue of malnutrition, the envoy said EU teams are in contact with partners who are operating different states like Katsina and Sokoto for instance, in particular in the North-West of the country.

He added: “And they ‘ve been recently on the field, so what we see is that there are still many, many families coming, mothers with babies, with children in states of severe acute malnutrition and these children are in danger of dying and some of them have died. I’ve seen myself a few weeks ago when I went to Katsina and there are also many families that do not reach these centres because they don’t know of their existence or they are just too far away to reach them. So there is really a necessity to make sure that there is no breakup in the chain of supply of the therapeutic food, which is absolutely indispensable and this requires additional funding from international donors or from national donors.

“We have seen how some state governments, Katsina for instance, have become more aware of the necessity of addressing the situation, but we need real efforts from all sides to inform the reaction to this crisis.

“So it’s very important to mobilise the necessary funds to address this situation.”

Then on the question on cooperation between the European Union and ECOWAS, he said :Our cooperation is rooted in shared values such as mutual integration, good governance and economic growth. The partnership has evolved to cover a wide range of areas including security, trade, migration and institutional capacity building. I want to underline that the European Union has supported ECOWAS through financial aid, technical assistance and political dialogue, particularly in conflict prevention, counter-terrorism and also intellectual processes.

“The EU provides support to ECOWAS regional peace, security and stability mandate to build and maintain peace, security and stability in the region to ensure conditions of development.”

Outbreak of Malnutrition: EU Offers Support to Nigeria

France, Italy Collaborates with Nigeria to Boost Human Trafficking Fight

…Launch Common Operational Partnership Project

By: Michael Mike

The French and Italian governments, in conjunction with Nigerian government have launched the Common Operational Partnership (COP Nigeria) Project aimed at combating human trafficking.

Speaking at the official launch of the project in Abuja, the Director General of National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Hajiya Binta Bello said: “Today’s event marks yet another milestone in our collective efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s response to human trafficking and the smuggling of migrants. It is a moment of renewed collaboration, shared commitment, and forward-looking action.

“Nigeria occupies a strategic position in the migration dynamics of West Africa. As a country of origin, transit, and destination, we continue to grapple with multifaceted and evolving challenges — from human trafficking and migrant smuggling to related transnational crimes such as sexual exploitation, document forgery, and drug trafficking.”

Bello, who was represented at the Launch by the agency’s Director, Research and Programme Development, Josiah Emerole, noted that: “Over the years, NAPTIP has made remarkable progress in its five cardinal areas of intervention — Policy, Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership. However, we are fully aware that the changing nature of trafficking and smuggling necessitates continuous innovation, deeper collaboration, and the strengthening of institutional capacities across all levels.”

She said: “The Common Operational Partnership (COP) initiative, implemented by the Government of France with the support of Italian Ministry of Interior, represents a strategic opportunity to consolidate our achievements and introduce evidence-based, context-specific approaches to tackling these crimes in Nigeria.

@Built around four key pillars — Joint Needs Assessment, Training and Mentoring, Operational Support, and Geographic Focus — the COP Project provides a comprehensive framework to enhance investigation, prosecution, and victim-centered interventions. Equally important, it will promote effective intelligence sharing, joint operations, and operational synergy among NAPTIP’s zonal commands and our regional partners in West Africa.”

She disclosed that: “The project will commence with pilot implementation in 3 target States — Cross River, Osun, Katsina, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) — all strategically positioned along high-risk trafficking and migration corridors. These routes have witnessed increasing volumes of irregular movement and emerging trafficking trends aimed at accessing developed countries. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated and sustained action, which this initiative aptly supports.”

Bello added that today’s launch is not merely ceremonial. It is a clear statement of intent — a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s commitment, through NAPTIP and in partnership with our international allies, to dismantle trafficking networks, disrupt smuggling operations, and uphold the dignity and rights of every human being.

She acknowledged the contributions of

the Government of France, CIVIPOL, the Italian Ministry of Interior, the European Union, and all other partners for their unwavering support, technical expertise, and steadfast commitment to this success of the project

She said: “Your collaboration reinforces the spirit of shared responsibility and global solidarity in combating human trafficking and migrant smuggling.”

She added that: “As we formally launch this project today, I urge all stakeholders to remain united and focused on our shared vision. Together, we can make the Common Operational Partnership not only a model of success for Nigeria but also a benchmark for regional cooperation and best practices across West Africa.”

Speaking on the project, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot said the official launch of the Common Operational Partnership

France-Italy-Nigeria project is a milestone in our shared commitment to combat trafficking in human beings and the smuggling of migrants.

He said. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all those who contributed to developing this initiative, including CIVIPOL, whose leadership and experience with the COP model is proving fundamental in providing expert coordination to the project, the International Security Cooperation

Directorate (DCIS) of the French Ministry of Interior and the Italian Ministry of Interior, whose technical expertise and coordination support will be crucial for the project’s success; and finally, the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), in particular the

Migration Partnership Facility (MPF), for their management support.”

He added that: “As you well know, Nigeria occupies a central position in this global challenge. It remains a source,

transit, and destination country for trafficking and smuggling, with well-established networks along the main migration routes. These rings exploit the most vulnerable, undermine security, and

violate fundamental rights. The EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and the renewed EU action plan against migrant smuggling (2021-2025) call for a comprehensive response and an even closer

cooperation along the migratory routes to dismantle criminal networks while safeguarding migrants’ dignity. The initiative we are launching today reflects that vision.”

He noted that: “The Common Operational Partnership France–Italy–Nigeria Project is a concrete step forward. Running until June 2027, with a budget of €1.43 million (93% co-funded by the European Union), it aims to achieve two objectives: first, to enhance NAPTIP’s capacity to dismantle trafficking and smuggling networks while protecting victims; and second, to strengthen regional and international cooperation against these crimes.

“Its methodology is practical and results-driven: a comprehensive needs assessment, followed by tailored training, equipment provision, and daily mentoring. This approach builds trust and ensures sustainable impact.”

Speaking also, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier said: “The project we are launching today is both concrete and ambitious. It is action–oriented and forward–looking. It aims to strengthen the capacities of law enforcement agencies, particularly NAPTIP, to improve information sharing, encourage joint investigation, and ensure coordinated support for victims”.

In her goodwill message, the Head, International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Isabelle Wolfsgruber, assured that the Centre shall continue to partner with state and non-state actors in the fight against human trafficking in Nigeria.

The project is co-funded by the European Union, contracted by ICMPD through the Migration Partnership facility. It will be implemented by CIVIPOL and NAPTIP.
End

NCCC Launches High-Level PreCOP Briefing to Sharpen Climate Negotiation Power

By: Michael Mike

The National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), in partnership with the British Embassy and PACE, has convened a two-day PreCOP30 Briefing and Negotiators’ Training in Abuja to arm Nigeria’s delegates with the strategy, skills, and unity needed to drive a just, well-financed, and inclusive climate transition on the global stage.

With less than two weeks to the landmark COP30 in Belém, Brazil, the event comes at a crucial time, the Director General, National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi

in her keynote address reminded the audience that COP30 is not about bureaucracy or endless talks it is a turning point for taking real action on climate promises.

She said: “This meeting is not another procedural call. As we all have been hearing, this is an implementation call. And I have seen it.”

She highlighted how Nigeria’s participation in global climate forums connects directly to the nation’s economic and environmental future, ensuring negotiations bring tangible benefits home.

She noted, “For Nigeria, COP30 presents an opportunity to translate these global decisions into tangible national benefits to secure finance, technology, and partnerships that support our NDC 3.0, our LT-LEDS, and all the other objectives under the Partnership Act of 2021. This two-day session is part of our continuing effort to professionalize Nigeria’s negotiating role, to ensure every delegate speaks from an informed, united, and strategic position.”

Majekodunmi outlined Nigeria’s central message for COP30 advocating for a fair, inclusive, and well-financed path toward low-carbon growth and resilience.

The DG emphasized, “Our vision for COP30 is clear to advance a just, inclusive and well-financed transition that strengthens resilience, drives low-carbon development, and safeguards the prosperity of Nigerians. Based on extensive consultations and analysis, the key priorities Nigerians will champion at COP30 include climate finance and implementation readiness, mitigation and just transition, adaptation and resilience, transparency, inclusion, and partnerships.”

She framed Nigeria’s stance not as vulnerable but as determined grounded in purpose, partnerships, and optimism.

Mrs. Majekodunmi declared, “We do not negotiate from a place of vulnerability, but from the position of purpose, partnership and possibility.”

Majekodunmi challenged every negotiator to ensure that agreements at global meetings translate into real outcomes for ordinary Nigerians.

She said, “Every word negotiated, every comma inserted, every coalition built must translate into climate action at will into cleaner air, sustainable jobs, resilient communities, secure livelihoods, and the backbone of environmental peace. Let this briefing and training not only sharpen our negotiation skills, but also reaffirm our national unity of purpose.”

Closing her remarks, she reminded participants that tackling climate change is a national duty across all sectors.

The Director-General concluded, “Climate action is not the work of one ministry or one agency or one council. It’s Nigeria’s collective development strategy.”

Majekodunmi’s address balanced vision and practicality, urging Nigerian negotiators to act boldly, speak with one voice, and ensure that global climate diplomacy delivers measurable progress for Nigerians.

Samantha Harrison of the British Commission emphasized that progress at COP30 depends not only on strong commitments but also on skilled negotiation. She stressed the importance of effective communication and consensus-building in achieving meaningful global climate action.

She said, “The UK understands the crucial role that skilled negotiators play at COP, where the ability to effectively advocate for national interests and build consensus is key to securing meaningful progress on the global climate emergency.”

Harrison highlighted the urgency of COP30, noting that climate impacts are intensifying and trust in international collaboration is being tested.

She said, “It is clear that the need for world-range, highly skilled negotiators has never been more critical. COP30 comes at a crucial moment, as climate impacts intensify and faith in the multilateral system is tested.”

She commended Nigeria for demonstrating leadership and commitment through its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0).

She said, “We commend Nigeria for submitting its Economy-Wide NDC 3.0, a clear demonstration of leadership and commitment to tackling climate change.”

In her concluding remarks, Harrison called on nations to restore collective resolve and ensure that COP30 delivers real, equitable outcomes.

She highlighted partnership, financial support, and strategic collaboration between the UK and Nigeria to turn ambitious climate commitments into tangible progress.

She said, “COP30 must demonstrate that we can rebuild shared resolve to close the ambition gap and make sure COP delivers for all. The UK is committed to helping Nigeria attract greater flows of climate finance and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. The training will help you effectively advocate for Nigeria’s priorities, including access to climate finance, which holds the potential to unlock new funding streams essential for climate resilience and sustainable development. As we look ahead, I encourage you to remain steadfast, collaborate closely, and think strategically. Your work over the coming days will help ensure that Nigeria’s voice is heard and that you emerge from COP30 with outcomes that support your national interests and the global climate agenda.”

Samantha Harrison’s goodwill message underscored partnership, preparedness, and action. She applauded Nigeria’s leadership, urged negotiators to strengthen collaboration, and reminded participants that COP30 must turn ambition into tangible global progress.

Saadatu Gambo, representing the NCCC/TBD, opened the session by emphasizing the importance of preparation and skill in climate negotiations.

She said, “I’m thrilled to welcome you all to this negotiator’s training. We have gathered to explore the art of negotiation, share best practice, and develop the skills needed to navigate complex deals and conversations, such as effective communication, building trust, and problem solving.”

Highlighting the stakes of COP30, Gambo added, “I’m excited to learn from each and every one of you. I’m confident that by the end of this training, you’ll be equipped with the tools and confidence to tackle even the toughest of negotiations. Let us get started and make the most of the time together.”

The NCCC outlined Nigeria’s key priorities for COP30,in the overview of the agenda , which will take place in Belém, Brazil, running in three phases the pre-summit on November 6–7, technical negotiations from November 10–15, and the high-level segment from November 16–21, when final decisions will be adopted.

Discussions will focus on implementing the Paris Agreement and advancing outcomes from COP29. Nigeria’s priorities include strengthening its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.1) with new 2035 targets, securing climate finance through the new $1.3 trillion collective goal, and advancing the Global Goal on Adaptation to address Africa’s needs. Negotiations will also cover Article 6 on carbon markets and the Just Energy Transition to ensure fairness, inclusion, and green job creation.

Thematic days will highlight adaptation, human development, economic transformation, biodiversity, and food security. The overall focus of COP30 is on implementation, climate justice, and linking climate action to national development.

The NCCC reaffirmed that Nigeria will participate from a position of collaboration and readiness, determined to turn commitments into measurable climate action that strengthens resilience, drives sustainable growth, and promotes equity across the nation and the African region.

NCCC Launches High-Level PreCOP Briefing to Sharpen Climate Negotiation Power