NAPTIP Makes Significant Strides in Fighting Human Trafficking in Nigeria

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has made a significant breakthrough in its fight against human trafficking in Nigeria. According to the Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, Emmanuel Awhen, the agency has apprehended no fewer than 115 suspected human traffickers and rescued 75 victims in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Rivers states.

Between July 2023 and now, NAPTIP has apprehended 115 human traffickers within the zone and rescued about 75 victims. Out of the 75 victims rescued, 25 have been empowered with skills in tailoring, hairdressing, barbing, and shoe making. The agency has also counselled, empowered, and reunited the victims with their families.

Awhen emphasized that coastal communities in the zone are endemic areas of human trafficking, and a lot of human trafficking victims have been rescued in these areas. He appealed to members of the public to support the agency in its fight against human trafficking, stressing that it is a collective responsibility.

The zonal commander also warned traffickers to desist from their illegal activities, stating that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law. He advised parents and guardians not to let their family members deceive them and take their children and wards on the pretext of helping to train or secure employment for them, as most often such children or wards end up being used for child labour or prostitution.

The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is marked on July 30, with this year’s theme being “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking.” Awhen emphasized that this year’s global campaign urges accelerated action to end child trafficking, as children represent a significant proportion of victims trafficked worldwide, with girls being disproportionately affected.

NAPTIP’s efforts in fighting human trafficking are a testament to the agency’s commitment to protecting the rights of vulnerable individuals and ensuring that perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice.