National Assembly Speaker, IOM strengthen ties on migration management.

He made the pledge during a meeting with the Head of Mission of the International Organisation for Migration, IOM, in Cameroon, Abdel Rahmane Diop. 

The meeting at the National Assembly on May 29, focused on strengthening cooperation to address migration challenges and improve the management of migrant-related issues.

The audience also provided an opportunity for the IOM to present the outcomes of parliamentary consultations held on April 9, regarding the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. 

The discussions sought the Speaker’s leadership in ensuring that recommendations made by parliamentarians are translated into action through institutional mechanisms.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Diop said the visit marked an important step in consolidating collaboration between the two institutions.

“Today has been a remarkable day for the International Organization for Migration, having been granted an audience by the President of the National Assembly. We came to follow up on the work already carried out and to present the outcomes of consultations held with parliamentarians on the Global Compact for Migration, while seeking his leadership for the implementation of the recommendations made,” he said.

Consultations to shape new framework

IOM official explained that the April consultations generated several proposals from lawmakers, which are now expected to guide future migration governance efforts. 

He disclosed that discussions are underway to establish a structural and permanent framework for collaboration between the National Assembly and the IOM.

“The roadmap now is to establish a structural partnership with the National Assembly in order to create a constant and institutional mechanism to follow up on these recommendations. This will ensure continuity and allow migration issues to be addressed through a coordinated parliamentary framework,” Diop added.

The IOM Head of Mission also mentioned that further announcements would be made during the next parliamentary session.

Condolences, repatriation update

During the audience, Diop conveyed the organisation’s condolences to the National Assembly following the passing of several members, including Speaker emeritus the Very Hon Cavaye Yeguié Djibril, who served as Speaker for 34 years. The Speaker acknowledged the gesture and thanked the IOM delegation.

The IOM also updated the Speaker on ongoing operations, notably the repatriation of approximately 120 Cameroonian nationals from Niger, expected to arrive that same day. 

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and legal return pathways for citizens facing distress abroad.

On his part, the Rt Hon Datouo commended the IOM’s support in training administrative authorities on migrant management and promoting development initiatives within migrant communities. 

He also highlighted the country’s management of migrants from the Central African Republic, Niger, Chad, Rwanda and other African nations hosted on its territory.

The Speaker assured the IOM of the National Assembly’s full involvement in migration initiatives and invited the organisation to the parliamentary honours planned in June for Speaker Emeritus.

The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation, improving migration governance and ensuring the dignified protection and return of citizens abroad.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3804 of Monday June 01, 2026