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Trafficking: Another batch of girls leave for Nigeria on Monday

by Chris Onokpegu

The Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, also known as Communaute Nigeriane Unie en Cote d’Ivoire last Monday repatriated another set of girls to Nigeria as part of its efforts to fight human trafficking.

The girls numbering six left the shores of the country by 10.30am for Nigeria and they are expected to arrive on Tuesday by evening where they will be reconciled with their parents.

Recalled penultimate week, that a pregnant woman with an eight month old baby alongside eight other girls were repatriated to Nigeria after they were rescued from the den of the traffickers.

The total of the girls repatriated so far is 980 and still counting because traveling documents are being prepared for another set to move on Wednesday. This is definitely not an easy task especially when one considers the amount being expended on a weekly basis.

Meanwhile, President of the Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, Chief Emeka Michael Onwuchelu said they will continue to carry on with the fight against trafficking until it is eradicated completely while assuring that the perpetrators will be made to face the wrath of the law.

He however called on the federal government of Nigeria to support the fight because they are spending a lot to take care of the girls and also to take them back to Nigeria.

His words, “We feel embarrassed by the activities of the girls who were lured and forced into prostitution. We are not known for this, we are hardworking people hence we are well-respected across the world. Women like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Alakija, Ezekwesili are women who have made great impacts at the world stage and we believe we still have more Okonjo-Iwealas amongst these girls that are being forced into prostitution.”

Recalled that the transportation fare for each of the girls back to Nigeria, cost between 35,000f and 50,000f (N130,000 or N150,000) depending on the vehicle and exchange rate of cefa at the time. The Nigerian Community caters for the transport fare,. Before they travel, they are sheltered, fed on a daily basis while waiting for their traveling documents. They also buy clothes for those who escaped from the traffickers’ den without taking their baggage along.

Onwuchelu is making Nigerian Community the best foreign community in Cote d’Ivoire – Chief Onah

President of the Benue State Union in Cote d’Ivoire, Chief Joseph Onah said the President of the Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu is doing a great job to bring every Nigerian tribe together and also making the Nigerian community the best amongst the foreign communities in Cote d’Ivoire.

He stated this in an exclusive interview with Nigerian Community Website last Friday at his luxurious office in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.

The man who also doubles as the Chief Executive Officer, CEO of TSW Cote d’Ivoire and the Aid-Life Group of Companies, Cote d’Ivoire said, “Onwuchelu is doing a lot, in fact, he is transforming the community in Cote d’Ivoire. He is trying to bring everybody together. He is a unifier. Just like I said earlier, I am the President of the Benue Community and he is trying to bring all of us together as one Nigeria, to see how we can fight this menace called trafficking and prostitution together and also see how we can avert other crimes in Cote d’Ivoire.

“So he is doing a lot, trying to bring everybody together. We are using this opportunity to encourage him not to give up, no matter the challenges, no matter the difficulties, we encourage him to continue to keep it up, we are solidly behind him and giving him all our supports especially as he is making frantic efforts to make the Nigerian community the best amongst the foreign communities in Cote d’Ivoire,” he said.

On Benue girls who were rescued from prostitution in Cote d’Ivoire, the Ojikpururu 1 Ny’Igede said, “I am very very disappointed to see our girls doing this because Benue people are hardworking people. Our girls are not known for prostitution. Everybody is looking for greener pasture and when you ask these girls, you will discover that they were not told from Nigeria that they are bringing them for prostitution.

“They are told that there are better jobs that they will be well paid. They deceive them and because they are looking for greener pastures, they follow them here and unfortunately, when they are here, they seize their phones hence they cannot communicate with their family members and relatives; only to be taken to the ghetto (brothel), so those are some of the issues and we are very disappointed,” he noted.

He however advised parents against allowing their children to accept any offer but rather educate them while also calling on government to prosecute those behind the trafficking of innocent children for prostitution. “My message to our parents back home is to educate their children that before anybody deceive them or send them to anywhere, they should be able to get information of such person who is coming to tell them that they have job opportunities for their children.”

Chief Onah continued, “If they are able to get information about the person that is volunteering to help, or give them job out there, that would be nice but if they can’t get in touch with their girls within one month, after traveling, then they can report the person to the police or other relevant authorities.”

“People that are involved in criminality, recruiting our girls and taking them out for prostitution are committing grievous crime and government must do something urgently to arrest and prosecute them, by ensuring that they face the wrath of the law,” he noted.

On what to do to reduce or probably put an end to the menace Chief Onah said, “The first thing is to tighten our border between Nigeria and Benin Republic, which is the Seme-border. And if the Nigerian and Benin Republic securities are able to collaborate, I believe they will be able to curtail this menace because you discover that these children are passing through the Seme-border by land or sea; and if they can also collaborate with the Cote d’Ivoire government, I believe they will be able to tackle the menace.

He concluded by saying, “If those children are found, they should not just repatriate them back to Nigeria but try to investigate using those rescued to track the cartel. The people that are involved in this criminal act, recruiting the girls, forcing them into prostitution are committing grievous crime hence government should do something urgently about it by ensuring that they face the wrath of the law,” he concluded.


Watch out for the full interview tomorrow

Delta State Union President charges govt agencies to educate Nigerians on ills of trafficking, prostitution

The Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, Chief Davidson Ogbu has charged the Nigerian government especially its agencies to live up to their responsibility in the fight against human trafficking and prostitution.

He made this call in an exclusive interview with the Nigerian Community Media Team last Friday in his magnificent home in Abidjan.

The man who also doubles as the President of the Delta State Union in Cote d’Ivoire and who is very passionate about Nigerian affairs said one of the contributing factors to human trafficking is lack of education and enlightenment on the parts of the youths and their parents.


His words, “There are a lot Nigerian government can do, it is about policies. Where are these girls being trafficked passing? They are definitely passing through our borders. We have Nigeria Customs Service, we have Nigeria Immigration Service, and others, that is one. Then two, education. There is need for proper education amongst the youth especially the young girls and also their parents.”


Chief Ogbu also charged the federal government to make life easier for Nigerians back home as the economic is biting hard on them which is indirectly putting pressure on Nigerians in diaspora while also urging them to come up with solutions that will help to alleviate the suffering of the people.


He said, “The federal government also needs to make life easier for Nigerians, let’s tell ourselves the truth. Americans are not coming to Nigeria to prostitute neither are other countries coming to Nigeria to prostitute. It is we Nigerians that are going to other countries. So there is need for us to find home-grown solution. Our government needs to be up and doing.


Lastly, the Delta State-Born Businessman urged the federal government to take stringent measures to punish traffickers so that they can be deterred from the business while also calling on other government agencies to collaborate to make the fight a success. “If people see that traffickers are being prosecuted, a lot of people will be scared to get into that kind of business.


“The bulk falls on the federal government; they have to enact a law that will go a long way to curtail these human trafficking activities. They should ensure that people are being jailed. For instance, if a person traffics a child and goes to prison for 20 years, people will be deterred from such business. All the government agencies – NAPTIP, Nigerians in Diaspora, Nigeria Immigration, and others at the borders should collaborate to make sure that this menace is reduced to the barest minimum,” he concluded.

SEMINAR ON DEMOCRATIC CHALLENGES IN WEST AFRICA

On July 23, 2024, an important seminar was held at Hotel Rose Blanche in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to address the pressing democratic challenges facing West Africa. This seminar was organized by the West Africa DIASPORA/UREM CEDEAO and the private sector union in Côte d’Ivoire, under the auspices of the West African Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS) and Centre de Recherche Politique d’Abidjan (CRPA), in collaboration with the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CPP-Ghana).

Objectives and Focus:

The seminar aimed to foster dialogue and cooperation among key stakeholders in the region to tackle the current democratic issues. A major point of discussion was the recent withdrawal of the Alliance of Sahelian States—comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This development has significant implications for the political stability and democratic processes within the region.

Key Participants:

The seminar brought together a diverse group of participants, including political scientists, policymakers, civil society representatives, and members of the diaspora. Notably, the Nigerian Community in Côte d’Ivoire was represented by High Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu, the distinguished President of the Nigerian Community in Côte d’Ivoire. His presence underscored the importance of inclusive dialogue and the role of the diaspora in addressing regional challenges.

Discussion Topics:

  1. Impact of the Sahelian States’ Withdrawal from ECOWAS:
    Participants explored the potential consequences of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger’s exit from ECOWAS. Discussions centered on how this move could affect regional security, economic integration, and democratic governance.
  2. Strengthening Democratic Institutions:
    The seminar emphasized the need to reinforce democratic institutions across West Africa. This includes ensuring free and fair elections, promoting the rule of law, and safeguarding human rights.
  3. Role of the Private Sector and Civil Society:
    Recognizing the crucial role of non-state actors, the seminar highlighted how the private sector and civil society organizations can contribute to democratic resilience and economic development in the region.
  4. Diaspora Contributions to Democracy:
    Special focus was given to the contributions of the West African diaspora in promoting democracy and stability in their home countries. Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu’s participation exemplified the diaspora’s active engagement in regional affairs.

Outcomes and Recommendations:

The seminar concluded with a series of recommendations aimed at addressing the identified democratic challenges. These include:

  • Enhanced Regional Cooperation:
    Strengthening collaboration among West African nations to address common challenges and promote democratic governance.
  • Support for ECOWAS:
    Encouraging continued support for ECOWAS and its initiatives to maintain regional stability and integration.
  • Engagement of the Diaspora:
    Leveraging the skills and resources of the diaspora to support democratic development and conflict resolution in their home countries.
  • Public-Private Partnerships:
    Promoting partnerships between the public and private sectors to drive economic growth and democratic governance.

Conclusion:

The seminar on democratic challenges in West Africa was a significant step towards fostering regional dialogue and cooperation. It provided a platform for stakeholders to share insights, propose solutions, and reinforce their commitment to democratic principles and regional stability. The involvement of diverse participants, including diaspora leaders like Super High Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu, highlighted the inclusive and comprehensive approach needed to address the complex democratic issues facing West Africa today.


Côte d’Ivoire: African Integration / The Gbêkê Region hosts the 7th edition of the “Community Days.

This past weekend, Nigerian Community in Côte d’Ivoire under the leadership of Chief Micheal Emeka Onwuchelu participated in the 7th edition of African Integration/ Community Days at Bouaké in the Gbêkê Region of Côte d’Ivoire, a celebration aimed at fostering regional integration and cultural exchange among the diverse foreign communities living in Côte d’Ivoire. This initiative aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s ongoing commitment to regional integration as a tool for development.

Event Highlights:

The event, organized by the Ivorian Office for the Promotion of African Integration (BIPIA), featured a series of activities designed to promote cultural interaction and unity. The opening ceremony took place on Friday, July 19, 2024, at KAMONIKRO field, under the High Patronage of His Excellency Mr. Amadou Koné, Minister of Transport and Mayor of Bouaké.

Key Activities:

  • Maracana Football Tournament:
    The tournament featured ten teams from ECOWAS countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Benin, Senegal, and Ghana. Ghana emerged victorious in a thrilling final, winning 3-2 on penalties against Guinea after a 2-2 draw in regular time.
  • Traditional Wrestling:
    This event saw participants from Niger, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Ghana, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mali. The final was an all-Ivorian match, with Youssouf clinching the champion title against Yaya.
  • Blood Donation Drive:
    The National Blood Transfusion Center (CNTS) of Bouaké led a successful blood donation campaign, managed by Mrs. Kouassi Akissi Antoinette Meir, with oversight from Mrs. Koné Mariame.

Statements and Acknowledgments:

Mr. Goli Louis Philippe, Director of Cabinet, praised the organizers for their efforts in making the day special and urged the community to uphold unity, solidarity, and peace for a successful integration. Dr. Moussa Mama, Director General of BIPIA, emphasized the importance of African integration and expressed gratitude to Mr. Abdoul Diarra Aziz, President of the ECOWAS Nationals in Bouaké, Mr. Sekou Kaba, President of UREM CEDEAO, Chief Michel Emeka Onwuchelu, President Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire and all partners for their support.

Conclusion:

The event concluded with family photo sessions, marking a successful first day of activities.

The Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Host Naija Diaspora Magazine Team

The Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, recently had the honor of hosting the Naija Diaspora Magazine team, a visit that underscored the strong ties and shared goals within the Nigerian community abroad. The embassy expressed deep appreciation for the magazine’s commitment to connecting and inspiring Nigerians in the diaspora.

Warm Reception and Meaningful Engagement.

The embassy staff welcomed the Naija Diaspora Magazine team with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. The entrance hall, adorned with Nigerian flags and cultural artifacts, exuded a sense of pride and cultural heritage. This warm reception set the tone for a day filled with meaningful discussions and engagement.

Meeting with the Charge d’Affaires.

The visit’s highlight was a meeting with Mrs. Itam Akpama Icha, the Charge d’Affaires at the Nigerian Embassy. Mrs. Icha, known for her dedication to the Nigerian community, expressed her enthusiasm for the magazine’s mission. She shared insights about the embassy’s ongoing initiatives to support Nigerians living in Côte d’Ivoire and emphasized the importance of media in fostering a sense of unity and belonging among the diaspora.

Presentation of Letter of Recognition.

In a gesture of mutual appreciation, the Naija Diaspora Magazine team presented Mrs. Icha with a letter of recognition. This letter acknowledged the embassy’s unwavering support and its pivotal role in nurturing a strong, connected Nigerian community in Côte d’Ivoire. The presentation was a heartfelt moment, symbolizing the collaboration and shared vision between the magazine and the embassy.

Commitment from Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu.

Adding to the day’s significance, Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu, the President of the Nigerian Community in Côte d’Ivoire, pledged his commitment to supporting the Nigerian diaspora in achieving their shared goals. Chief Onwuchelu, a respected leader, emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration, highlighting how the community can work together to create a brighter future for all Nigerians in Côte d’Ivoire.

Reflections and Future Collaborations.

The Naija Diaspora Magazine team left the embassy with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. The embassy’s warm reception and the discussions reinforced their mission to connect, inform, and inspire the Nigerian diaspora. The visit not only strengthened their bond with the embassy but also set the stage for future collaborations aimed at empowering the Nigerian community.

Conclusion.

The Nigerian Embassy’s appreciation for the Naija Diaspora Magazine team’s visit and the letter of recognition presented to Mrs. Icha exemplify the strong partnership between the embassy and the magazine. With Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu’s pledge of support, there is a renewed commitment to fostering unity and achieving shared goals within the Nigerian community in Côte d’Ivoire. The Naija Diaspora Magazine team looks forward to continuing their work in showcasing the vibrant spirit and resilience of Nigerians across the globe.

Photos

Connecting Cultures: Bipia’s Annual Integration Ceremony 2023 Celebrates ‘Journee des Communautes Abobo’ with ECOWAS Nations in Côte d’Ivoire

Bureau Ivoirien Pour La Promotion De L’ Integration Africaine (Bipia) —  Ivorian bureau for the promotion of african integration on social, cultural and business/trading co-operation between Ivoirians and other african countries residing in Côte d’Ivoire, on 2nd of December 2023, hosted the ECOWAS countries. This event is to mark their usual end of the year integration ceremony with west african countries living in Côte d’Ivoire.

This year 2023 event was hosted in abobo commune. This year’s theme is ‘journee des communautes abobo 2023’

Nigeria community delegates were led by high chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu the president of the Nigerian community in Côte d’Ivoire.

Photos

Nig. community

Nigerian Community Paid a Courtesy Visit to the New Consul General of Nigeria in Cote d’Ivoire

The end of one era, marks the beginning of another. Familiarization visit to the new Consul General of Nigeria in Cote d’Ivoire Mr. Paul Obi by Nigerian community in Cote d’ Ivoire.

The president of the Nigerian Community in cote d’Ivoire, high chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu with some commune chairmen and central executives, on 20th November 2023, paid a courtesy visit to the new Consul General of Nigeria in Cote d’Ivoire, Mr. Paul obi and his assistant Mrs. Mildred Princewill, at Nigeria embassy Plateau.

The visit was to welcome the new Consul General, pledge loyalty to him and let him know that the Nigerian community under the leadership of high chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu, is ready to co-operate and work together with him, for the welfare and good of all Nigerians living in cote dI’voire.

Nigerian community entourages were warmly welcomed by the consul, Mr. Paul Obi and his assistant Mrs. Mildred Princewill. He appreciated Nigerian Community kind gesture to pay him a courtesy visit and look forward to good working relationship with the Nigerian community, under the leadership of high chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu and his executives.

May God be with the new consul, give him and his team, also the Nigerian community, the wisdom, grace and all they need to protect the interests of Nigerians in Cote d’Ivoire. Amen

emeka

God bless Nigerian Embassy Cote d’Ivoire

God bless Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire

God bless Nigeria

God bless us

Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire Rescues Victims of Modernized Human Trafficking

In a remarkable act of compassion and collaboration, the Nigerian community in Cote d’Ivoire under the leadership of High Chief Emeka Onwuchelu, has stepped up to rescue 71 Nigerians who fell victim to a modernized form of human trafficking. This disturbing incident sheds light on the perils of illegal businesses like the Qnet MLM program and underscores the importance of community support and cooperation.

The Rescue Operation

It all began when the Ivorian police arrested 63 men and 8 women, all of Nigerian descent, who had been lured into the Qnet business scheme. This MLM program, operating under the guise of a legitimate enterprise, had ensnared these individuals who had only recently arrived in Cote d’Ivoire. This alarming situation can be seen as a form of modernized human trafficking, where vulnerable individuals are coerced into deceptive business practices.

The Role of the Nigerian Community

The Nigerian community in Cote d’Ivoire displayed an inspiring demonstration of unity and responsibility. They immediately sprang into action, recognizing the urgency of the situation. Their determination to support their fellow Nigerians in distress was unwavering.

Repatriation and Collaboration

The Nigerian community in Cote d’Ivoire worked tirelessly in collaboration with the Nigerian Embassy and the Ivorian authorities to ensure the safe repatriation of the victims back to Nigeria. This partnership exemplifies the importance of international cooperation in combating human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

A Message of Encouragement

This incident serves as a stern reminder to Nigerians residing in Cote d’Ivoire to be vigilant and law-abiding. Engaging in illegal activities not only jeopardizes their own well-being but also tarnishes the reputation of Nigeria as a whole. It is vital to choose lawful and ethical paths in their pursuit of success and prosperity, thus upholding the good name of their nation.

The Nigerian community’s intervention and the subsequent repatriation of these victims highlight the strength of unity within the diaspora. This compassionate response serves as an inspiring example of how communities can come together to protect their own, even in foreign lands.

In conclusion, the Nigerian community in Cote d’Ivoire’s efforts to rescue the victims of modernized human trafficking demonstrate the power of collective action and cooperation. Their dedication to repatriating their fellow countrymen and women, as well as their collaboration with authorities, is a testament to the resilience and compassion of the Nigerian diaspora. We should all be reminded of the importance of being law-abiding citizens and upholding our nation’s reputation, no matter where we reside.

Photos

SEND-FORTH PARTY FOR CONSUL MR. DAMILOLA ABIKOYE OLUFEMI HELD ON 15TH SEPT. 2023 PHOTOS

IT IS SAID THAT EVERYTHING THAT HAS A BEGINNING MUST HAVE AN END. IT’S TIME TO SAY  GOODBYE TO OUR AMIABLE AND OUTSTANDING CONSUL, MR. DAMILOLA ABIKOYE OLUFEMI, IS DEPARTING FOR NIGERIA AFTER HIS WORKING STAY IN THE NIGERIAN EMBASSY IN COTE D’ IVOIRE.  

THE NIGERIAN COMMUNITY IN COTE D’ IVOIRE UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIAN COMMUNITY IN COTE D’ IVOIRE, HIGH CHIEF MICHAEL EMEKA ONWUCHELU ON FRIDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER, 2023 ORGANISED A LOW-KEY SEND-OFF PARTY FOR CONSUL MR. DAMILOLA ABIKOYE OLUFEMI, IS LEAVING COTE D’ IVOIRE BACK TO NIGERIA AT THE END OF HIS 3-YEAR WORKING AT NIGERIA EMBASSY COTE D’ IVOIRE AS THE CONSULAR.

MR. DAMILOLA ABIKOYE OLUFEMI, WE CHERISH YOUR COOPERATION WITH THE NIGERIA COMMUNITY COTE D’ IVOIRE. DESPITE THE PRESSURE AND MALICIOUS ATTACKS FROM VERY SMALL NUMBERS OF ‘HINDERS OF GOOD CHANGE’.  DUE TO THEIR SELFISH INTERESTS, THEY ARE AGAINST YOUR SUPPORT FOR GOOD CHANGE IN THE NIGERIAN COMMUNITY, UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIAN COMMUNITY IN COTE D’ IVOIRE HIGH CHIEF MICHAEL EMEKA ONWUCHELU.

IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR ATTACKS AND FALSE PETITIONS, YOU REMAIN RESILIENCE AND FOCUS ON MAKING SURE THE RIGHT THING IS DONE FOR THE GOOD WELFARE OF NIGERIANS IN COTE D’ IVOIRE. WE SALUTE YOUR COURAGE AND WILL TO STAND BY THE TRUTH.