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HomeNEWSAmb. Epelle Champions Disability-Inclusive Migration for Nigeria at UN Conference in Porto,...

Amb. Epelle Champions Disability-Inclusive Migration for Nigeria at UN Conference in Porto, Portugal

Porto, Portugal – January 29, 2025 – A powerful and pivotal moment unfolded at the UN Migration Conference in Porto, Portugal, as Nigeria’s delegation took center stage, driving forward a message of inclusivity and advocacy for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in global migration discussions. With the spotlight on promotinsustainable migration frameworks, the Nigerian delegation’s presence signaled the nation’s commitment to shaping migration policies that are not only comprehensive but also inclusive of all people, regardless of physical or mental challenges.

At the forefront of this movement was Jake Epelle, the dynamic CEO and Founder of TAFAfrica, an organization renowned for its work advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities across Africa. Epelle’s impassioned call for the integration of PWDs into migration frameworks resonated strongly during his address at the conference, where he championed the need for global cooperation to ensure that disabled individuals are not left behind as migration policies evolve.

“Migration policies must be designed with everyone in mind,” Epelle emphasized during his remarks. “Persons with disabilities, whether they are migrants or refugees, must have their rights respected, their needs met, and their voices heard. Without inclusivity, migration efforts risk perpetuating marginalization rather than alleviating it.”

Epelle was not alone in representing Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to advancing disability-inclusive migration policies. The Nigerian delegation also included several high-profile officials, each contributing their expertise and support for the cause. Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Head of Delegation, Hon. Minister, Humanitarian Affairs And Poverty Reduction, led the charge, emphasizing Nigeria’s leadership in the African continent’s migration dialogue. He was joined by Dr. Yakubu Kofarmata, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, whose presence highlighted the Nigerian government’s focus on humanitarian concerns and poverty alleviation as part of their migration strategies.

The Senior Officials’ Meeting of the Rabat Process held on January 29-30, 2025, marked a crucial milestone in the ongoing global migration discussions. The event, which took place against the scenic backdrop of Porto, Portugal, was a significant step in advancing the dialogue on migration between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. With the Portuguese Chairmanship of the Rabat Process concluding in early 2025, the meeting also included the formal handover of leadership to Nigeria, which will assume the chairmanship for the upcoming year. This transition is seen as a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in migration affairs, particularly within the African context.

The Rabat Process, a platform for dialogue on migration policy, brings together countries from across three continents to discuss cooperative measures for managing migration and addressing the root causes of displacement. With Nigeria at the helm, the global migration community can expect to see a renewed focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities in migration processes. Under Nigeria’s leadership, the country is poised to advocate for the creation of migration policies that prioritize the inclusion and protection of vulnerable populations, particularly those with disabilities.

As Epelle and the Nigerian delegation made their presence felt in Porto, it was clear that their participation was not just a symbolic gesture. It was a rallying cry for action, demanding that international migration frameworks leave no one behind, especially those already marginalized by society. The inclusion of PWDs in migration policy discussions is not merely a matter of equity—it’s a fundamental human rights issue, one that Nigeria is determined to address on the world stage.

“Migration should be about opportunity, not exclusion,” Epelle remarked. “For far too long, people with disabilities have been overlooked in migration conversations. It’s time for a paradigm shift. We must build a migration system that works for everyone, including the most vulnerable.”

This gathering in Porto represents more than just the conclusion of a diplomatic meeting—it signifies the beginning of a new era in migration discourse, one where the rights of persons with disabilities are integrated into global policy-making frameworks. The handover of the Rabat Process Chairmanship to Nigeria ensures that the African voice remains strong in these critical discussions, with a special focus on addressing the needs of the most vulnerable groups.

As the two-day meeting wraps up, the road ahead looks promising for a migration framework that truly embodies the values of inclusivity and human dignity. Nigeria, under its new leadership of the Rabat Process, is poised to lead the charge for a more equitable migration future. For persons with disabilities, this could be the breakthrough they’ve long been waiting for. The world is watching as Nigeria sets the stage for lasting change in migration policies—change that values the rights and contributions of all individuals, regardless of their physical or mental abilities.

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