Date: 29 June, 2026
By Jane Daniel
The promise is often tempting. It comes like a lucrative job abroad, admission into a foreign school, a better life in the city and or an opportunity to escape poverty. But for thousands of victims, such promises end in exploitation, abuse, forced labour, sexual slavery and, in some cases, death.
Human trafficking has remained one of the most disturbing crimes confronting Nigeria and the global community. Exploiting poverty, unemployment, ignorance and desperation, traffickers continue to lure unsuspecting victims into dangerous situations, leaving families devastated and communities scarred.
To stem the tide, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), with the support of development partners, has intensified awareness campaigns across communities, warning Nigerians against the tricks employed by traffickers.
One of such efforts was the four-day stakeholders’ sensitization and advocacy programme held in Enugu State, where traditional rulers, religious leaders, women groups, youth organisations, security agencies and civil society organisations examined practical measures for tackling the growing menace.
The choice of these stakeholders is significant because human trafficking thrives within communities before extending beyond national borders. It often begins with familiar faces, trusted neighbours or deceptive promises that prey on the hopes of vulnerable people. This underscores why communities must become active participants in preventing the crime.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), in partnership with the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, has intensified grassroots efforts to combat human trafficking and violence against persons.
NAPTIP’s Director of Research and Programme Development, Josiah Emerole, said communities are the first line of defence, urging traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to promote vigilance and report suspicious activities. TIPVAP Project Manager, Matthias Esene, stressed that stronger grassroots advocacy and victim support are essential to protecting human dignity.
Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, blamed unemployment and poverty for exposing many young Nigerians to traffickers, calling for greater investment in youth and women empowerment.
While the partnership between NAPTIP, ICMPD and the Kingdom of the Netherlands is strengthening institutional capacity and public awareness, experts insist that every Nigerian has a role to play. Parents, teachers and community leaders must educate young people about the dangers of irregular migration and deceptive job offers.
Above all, ending human trafficking demands vigilance, economic empowerment and collective action. Every reported case saves lives, protects dreams and strengthens Nigeria’s resolve against modern-day slavery.
Suspected cases of human trafficking can be reported to NAPTIP through its toll-free line 0703 000 203 or short code 627.
