BENIN CITY – His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has solicited a stronger ties between the Benin and the French Government in the eradication of human trafficking across the African Continent.
Oba Ewuare II made the assertion when he received the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jerome Pasquier and his entourage at his palace on Monday in Benin City.
The monarch who also sought cultural integration between Nigeria and France arising from their historical background, said the war against human trafficking can only be won through collaboration among Countries.
Oba Ewuare said job creation for the teeming youths, sensitisation campaign of people on the evil of Human trafficking could go a long way to end illegal migration.
According to him, “it is not part of our culture to negativity, but to promote the positivity of our Culture…”We cannot stand bye to have our culture portrayed in bad light”.
He also urged the French Government to help in the establishment of companies in Nigeria that could engage the youths in lawful venture and take their minds from illegal migration.
Addressing the Benin throne, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jerome Pasquier, recall the steps so far taken the Oba of Benin in the fight against human trafficking.
He also disclosed to the monarch that there are plans to return stolen Benin artifacts which would form part of their discussion in Benin.
“I feel very impressed honoured and privileged to be received by the Royal Majesty. He has been so active here in Benin City on many issues especially on the issue on the fight against human trafficking.
“It is a very difficult issue. The action taken by his Royal Majesty is extraordinary and extremely useful.
“We know also that he is very much committed in the cultural and African heritage. This is going to be the second issue that we are all going to discuss in Benin City.
“We are going to hold a dialogue with experts to see what France can do for Nigeria in protecting and recovering its heritage”, he said.
High point was the presentation of the Red Book on Benin History by the Benin monarch to the French Ambassador.
