Here's what you probably did not know about Libya slave trade

The ongoing slave trade crisis in Libya has led to a global outcry, prompting action from the Federal Government and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), funded by the European Union, to evacuate Nigerian migrants from the North African country back to Nigeria. In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Abike Dabiri, Senior Special Adviser for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora to President Buhari, shed light on the situation and discussed the efforts being made to address this humanitarian crisis. Dabiri highlighted the long-standing issue of Nigerian migrants facing dangers and violence in Libya, dating back to the time of Gaddafi's rule. She emphasized that the Nigerian government, in collaboration with various agencies, has been involved in the evacuation of its citizens since January. Despite the challenges posed by the lack of government and law enforcement in Libya, the intervention of the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) is crucial in ensuring the safe return of Nigerian migrants. Dabiri stressed the need for a coordinated and massive evacuation strategy to effectively address the crisis and prevent further exploitation of vulnerable migrants. The interview also touched upon the role of traffickers, many of whom are Nigerians themselves, in perpetuating the cycle of slavery and exploitation. Dabiri pointed out that the issue of slavery begins within Nigeria, with individuals being lured by promises of a better life in Europe, only to fall victim to traffickers and exploitation. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness and educating people about the dangers of irregular migration and the reality of the slave trade in Libya. While poverty is a significant factor driving migration, Dabiri highlighted the role of ignorance and misinformation in fueling the crisis. The interview concluded with a call for global action and cooperation to address the root causes of the slave trade and ensure the protection of vulnerable migrants. The evacuation efforts, with thousands of Nigerian migrants already brought back from Libya, are a step in the right direction, but sustained efforts and international collaboration are essential to eradicate this inhumane practice.