France, Italy Collaborate With Nigeria To Boost Fight Against Human Trafficking

• Launch Common Operational Partnership Project

The governments of France and Italy, in collaboration with the 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 the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Hajiya Binta Bello, stated: “Today’s event marks 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 of 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 the 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-centred 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 three target states—Cross River, Osun, and 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 the 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 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 of the 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, and will be implemented by CIVIPOL and NAPTIP.