The Nigerian Immigration Service has made significant strides in the fight against human trafficking, apprehending a staggering 522 traffickers and rescuing their victims in the year 2023. This remarkable feat was revealed by the Comptroller General, Caroline Adepoju, during a media briefing in Abuja on the upcoming International Migrants Day on December 18.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Mrs. Adepoju emphasized that human trafficking poses a serious transnational threat, with Nigeria serving as a country of origin, transit, and destination for exploited migrants. She underscored the fact that this illicit trade not only endangers the lives of vulnerable individuals but also undermines national borders and security.
In her impassioned address, Mrs. Adepoju stressed the importance of collective action to combat the crime, protect the welfare of migrants, and address the root causes that contribute to the proliferation of human smuggling networks. She unequivocally labeled migrant smuggling as a violation of human rights, exposing individuals to exploitation, abuse, and even death.
Firmly reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to combating this dire issue, Mrs. Adepoju outlined the multifaceted approach implemented by the Nigerian Immigration Service. This approach encompasses prevention, enforcement, and international cooperation, with a strong emphasis on raising awareness about the dangers of irregular migration and the deceptive tactics employed by smugglers to lure their victims.
The proactive measures taken by the Nigerian Immigration Service extend to the implementation of advanced border security and immigration control mechanisms. These measures include the use of cutting-edge technologies such as biometric identifications, surveillance cameras at key borders, and an advanced Passenger Information System. Such efforts are aimed at deterring the smuggling of migrants across Nigerian borders and strengthening the interception of perpetrators involved in this heinous crime.
Furthermore, Mrs. Adepoju underscored the crucial role of international cooperation in addressing the transnational nature of migrant smuggling. The Nigerian Immigration Service is actively engaged in collaborative initiatives with regional and international partners to share information, intelligence, and best practices in combating this global menace.
As the Anti-smuggling of Migrants Week approaches, Mrs. Adepoju made a poignant call to action, urging all stakeholders including government agencies, Civil Society Organisations, the private sector, and the media to actively contribute to the fight against human trafficking. She emphasized that each and every one of us has a role to play in preventing the exploitation of migrants and safeguarding the integrity of borders.
In an inspiring finale, Mrs. Adepoju reaffirmed the unwavering commitment to upholding the rights of migrants, protecting their well-being, and ensuring their safe and orderly migration. The commendable efforts of the Nigerian Immigration Service during this Anti-smuggling of Migrants Week involve sensitization of officers and men, presentations, and a medical outreach program, reflecting the holistic approach taken to combat human trafficking.
