The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, has reiterated the UK’s commitment to helping Nigeria curb human trafficking and other forms of irregular migration which has become a major source of worry for both countries.
Ms Laing voiced the commitment at an event marking the World Day Against Trafficking of People at the British High Commission in Abuja.
Attendees included the International Organisation for Migration Chiefs of Mission from Niger and Nigeria, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Jerome Pasquier and Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki.
In 2013 the United Nations General Assembly had declared July 30 as the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
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This year’s theme, ‘Victims’ Voices Lead the Way”, aims to amplify the voices of victims, putting their experiences and their perspectives at the centre of counter-trafficking responses and prevention efforts.
‘The UK is a proud ally of Nigeria in its efforts to tackle human trafficking and in supporting Nigerian victims and survivors through a variety of programmes that provide shelters, physical and mental health interventions, and rehabilitation and reintegration services,’ Ms Laing said at the World Day Against Trafficking of People event, which was held on Thursday.
‘We will remain committed to building on our partnerships in Nigeria and Niger tackle their shared challenges on trafficking.’
One key component of the UK’s efforts against human trafficking in Nigeria is The Collaboration Against Trafficking and Smuggling between Nigeria and Niger programme, also known as CATS.
The CATS programme was developed following the signing of the Sandhurst Treaty between the UK and France in 2018.
The treaty was signed by the then British Prime Minister Theresa May and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The second phase of the CATS programme was launched at the Thursday event.
AFRICA DAILY NEWS, NEW YORK
