Stakeholders have called for better treatment of African citizens across the continent, particularly in addressing xenophobia, human trafficking and the protection of migrants.
The call was made at a one-day conference and strategic dialogue on the effects of migration on African citizens, organised by the African Diaspora Union (AFRIDU) in Abuja.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs and NGOs, Senator Aniekan Bassey, decried attacks on Africans in other African countries, calling for greater unity among African nations for peace and development.
Also speaking, the member representing Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency of Niger State, Joshua Audu Gana, said “the House of Representatives’ decision to sever diplomatic ties with South Africa was in the interest of Nigerians.”
Gana attributed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians to ignorance among some young South Africans and called for stronger laws to protect Nigerians.
The Global President of AFRIDU, Prof. Chidiebere Ogbu, said; “the dialogue was aimed at putting human lives at the centre of discussions on migration.”
He said behind every migration figure was a human being, while dangerous journeys often represented the search for better opportunities.
Ogbu said; “Africa must address the conditions that make dangerous migration appear more attractive to young people than opportunities available within the continent.”
He also called for stronger action against human trafficking, saying Africans subjected to exploitation, forced labour and sexual exploitation must be protected.
“Human dignity is not for sale. The African child is not a commodity. The African woman is not a commodity. The African migrant is not a commodity,” he said.
He called for stronger mechanisms, enforcement, accountability and cooperation among African countries to tackle trafficking and protect migrants.
Ogbu raised concerns about the treatment of African migrants within the continent, urging governments to address xenophobia and what he described as Afro-phobia against people because of their nationality or perceived foreign status.
He said; “governments should identify specific measures, responsible institutions and timelines for preventing trafficking, protecting migrants and addressing xenophobia and Afro-phobia.”
There were also goodwill messages from representatives of some African countries.
Mr Ebot Ebot of AFRIDU Cameroon stressed the need for love and unity among African countries.
The conference was held under the theme, “Effect of Migration on African Citizens.”
