The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), has convened a two-day stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja to drive the implementation of recommendations from the Committee on the Protection of Migrant Workers (CMW). The workshop focuses on strengthening Nigeria’s adherence to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, a key United Nations framework designed to safeguard the rights of migrant workers. As a signatory to the convention, Nigeria is expected to ensure full protection for migrant workers and their families.
NHRC Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu (SAN), represented by Deputy Director of Legal, Jennifer Aga, reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to protecting the rights of migrant workers. He emphasized the need for stakeholders to take proactive steps in defending their rights and ensuring compliance with international human rights obligations.
Esther Michael Sawa, Legal Officer at OHCHR, outlined the primary goal of the workshop—to enhance the implementation of CMW’s recommendations and other human rights mechanisms. She noted that the training aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of migrant workers’ rights and equip them to effectively follow up on recommendations from the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) and the CMW.
A key outcome of the workshop will be the development of a follow-up matrix to track progress on implementing CMW’s concluding observations. Additionally, participants will receive updates on the 45th UPR session and its recommendations for Nigeria. The workshop is expected to strengthen the capacity of stakeholders, providing them with the necessary knowledge, tools, and strategies to monitor the Nigerian government’s commitment to migrant workers’ rights.