In Nigeria, a nation where countless dreams of better futures abroad too often devolve into tragic realities, the battle against human trafficking remains one of the country’s most urgent and complex challenges.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has positioned itself at the forefront of this fight, working tirelessly alongside government bodies, civil society and international partners to protect vulnerable Nigerians and bring traffickers to justice.
Rescue and Rehabilitation:
At a recent stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja, NAPTIP’s Director of Programmes and Development, Mr. Josiah Emerole, revealed that since its inception, the Agency has rescued and rehabilitated over 25,550 victims across Nigeria.
These survivors receive support at 14 operational shelters nationwide, where they access medical care, psychosocial counseling, vocational training, and educational services aimed at restoring dignity and independence.
Mr. Emerole highlighted NAPTIP’s track record: 13,595 trafficking cases recorded, 11,394 suspects arrested, and 721 convictions secured. According to Mr. Emerole, the Agency also prioritizes continuous training for officers and prosecutors, ensuring expertise in handling the complexities of trafficking crimes. He called for sustained technical and financial support from development partners to scale these efforts further.
Research Illuminates Critical Gaps
Despite progress, challenges remain. Academics from the Open University UK presented findings exposing significant disconnects between anti-trafficking policies and their practical application in Nigeria. Dr. Saraswati Dawadi stressed the scarcity of updated data and the need for evidence-based research to guide interventions.
Her colleague, Dr. Margaret Ebubedike, focused on the gendered nature of trafficking stating that women and girls make up nearly 88% of returnees, most trafficked for sexual exploitation. She called for the establishment of a dedicated parliamentary advocacy unit to push stronger legislation and oversight focused solely on trafficking.
A Survivor’s Harrowing Journey
The human toll was brought to vivid life by the testimony of a survivor who recounted being lured by false promises of education abroad, only to endure years of captivity and abuse. Her ordeal took her from Nigeria through Niger’s deserts to Libya, where she was subjected to sexual slavery and imprisonment. Rescued through coordinated efforts by her family and NAPTIP, she now dedicates herself to warning others.
“Traffickers hide in trusted circles,” she cautioned. “No one should fall for fake promises of jobs and education abroad.”
Calls for Enhanced Coordination and Prevention
Representatives from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), including Dr. Sule Bassi, reiterated the need for collaboration among security agencies to repatriate victims and prosecute offenders swiftly. The judiciary was urged to fast-track trafficking cases and ensure stiffer penalties.
Mr. Lambent Oparah, Executive Director of Golden Hope International Foundation, emphasized prevention through community education and livelihood support for survivors to break the cycle of trafficking. Dr. Hammed Abodunrin of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps lamented the limited involvement of Nigerian universities and government institutions in awareness campaigns, advocating instead for multi-sectoral partnerships spanning academia, security agencies, civil society, and government.
The Path Forward
The Abuja meeting underscored that no single entity can eradicate human trafficking alone. A comprehensive, evidence-driven, and community-focused approach is paramount. Policymakers, civil organizations, security agencies, academia, and international partners must unite to safeguard Nigeria’s youth and vulnerable populations.
Survivors’ voices serve as powerful reminders of both the dangers of trafficking and the resilience of the human spirit. With continued collaboration and strategic investment, Nigeria can strengthen its defenses against this heinous crime and offer hope to those at risk.
