NAPTIP vows to intensify fight against human trafficking

National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking, outlining strategic priorities to tackle the scourge.

The Director General Binta Adamu Bello made the pledge during a meeting with European Union (EU) Member States’ Immigration Liaison Officers in Abuja.

She said, “We will do more to fight human trafficking in Nigeria,” Bello assured, emphasizing the agency’s determination to build on existing policies and counter-trafficking programs. The renewed effort aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

NAPTIP’s strategic priorities focus on developing efficient systems for identifying and returning trafficking victims, supporting victims through six support centers across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, enhancing collaboration with partners, and upgrading technology for tracking and analyzing trafficking data.

EU Ambassador-Designate Gautier Mignot commended NAPTIP’s progress, acknowledging the global priority of combating human trafficking. “The fight against human trafficking requires cooperation and support from all stakeholders,” he emphasised.

The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation between NAPTIP and EU Member States, providing a platform for exchanging ideas on human trafficking issues. Immigration Liaison Officers from EU Member States attended, seeking clarification on NAPTIP’s operations and activities.

Bello highlighted NAPTIP’s modest achievements, including rescue and support for victims of trafficking, capacity development for officers, prevention activities, partnership with Civil Society organizations, and collaboration with neighboring countries.

Despite progress, NAPTIP faces challenges in combating human trafficking. Bello cited the need for improved research and data analysis, enhanced cooperation with neighboring countries, increased funding, and capacity building for investigators and prosecutors.

Bello emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, seeking support from EU Member States. “We need each other to get the job done,” she stressed.

The EU has provided significant support to NAPTIP, including projects focused on rescue and support, capacity development, and prevention activities.

NAPTIP’s renewed commitment to combating human trafficking marks a significant step forward. With EU support and cooperation, Nigeria is poised to make strides in protecting vulnerable individuals and holding traffickers accountable.

As Bello noted, “The fight against human trafficking is a collective responsibility. We must work together to eradicate this scourge.”

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) was established in 2003 to prevent, fight, and suppress trafficking in persons, especially women and children.