Nigeria has officially taken over the leadership of the Rabat Process, prioritising youth empowerment, innovation, and migration governance.
At a press conference in Abuja following the first Steering Committee meeting, Tijjani Ahmed, Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, outlined Nigeria’s focus on collaboration and practical solutions to migration challenges. These include regular migration pathways, diaspora engagement, and the role of remittances.
Ahmed emphasised that the annual leadership transition ensures balanced African and European perspectives, promoting dialogue and mutual accountability.
He highlighted key programmes under Nigeria’s chairmanship, including;
- Workshops on Migration Data Management
- Thematic meetings on trafficking, migrant smuggling, missing migrants, and climate-induced mobility
- A flagship Knowledge Product on “Reimagining Reintegration.”
Nigeria’s tenure will emphasize sustainable migration policies and regional cooperation, with a special focus on empowering youth and leveraging innovation.
The Rabat Process Steering Committee comprises 16 members; ‘Seven African countries: Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Mali, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, and Senegal; Seven European countries: Belgium, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the Netherlands and two regional organizations: The European Union Commission and ECOWAS.’
The first thematic meeting under Nigeria’s leadership is scheduled for May 13–14, 2025, in Abuja.
The Steering Committee members expressed full support for Nigeria’s proactive leadership and proposed initiatives.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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