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.
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NANS Warns Against Political Interference In The Attempted Assassination Case Of Chief Benard Jagboro

By Daniel Dafe

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed deep concern over the recent attempt on the life of one of the patrons of NANS, Chief Benard Jagboro, which occurred in Okwokoko, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.

Comr. Jeremiah Ohomah, National Financial Secretary, NANS, who said this in a statement on Wednesday, commended the swift and diligent response of the Nigeria Police Force, who promptly tracked and arrested the suspects involved in the dastardly act.

NANS also said that “it is also on record that arms and ammunition were recovered during the operation, a clear indication of the gravity of the crime and the professionalism displayed by the security operatives.”

According to the statement, “NANS has received credible reports that the case and the arrested suspects—originally scheduled for transfer to Abuja for proper investigation and prosecution—have been stalled following an alleged intervention by a yet-to-be-named political figure and a serving Minister,” saying that “this development, if true, is a grave threat to justice and a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law.”

“On this premise, the leadership of NANS strongly warns against any form of political interference aimed at aiding or abetting criminals. We will not sit idly by while individuals in positions of authority attempt to pervert justice or shield perpetrators of violence from accountability,” the statement said.

The statement said further: “The Association reiterates its unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice for Chief Benard Jagboro and demands that the police be allowed to carry out their constitutional duty without undue influence or intimidation. Any attempt to obstruct justice will be met with firm resistance from the Nigerian student community.”

NANS also called on the Inspector General of Police and relevant authorities “to ensure that this case is handled transparently and that justice is not only done but seen to be done.”

NANS Warns Against Political Interference In The Attempted Assassination Case Of Chief Benard Jagboro

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