Abuja:International development partners have advocated for stronger institutions, digital solutions, and enhanced cross-border cooperation to tackle human trafficking and improve support for survivors in Nigeria. This call was made during the 29th National Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum (NSCF) on Human Trafficking held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Javier Leon, Team Lead of the Foundation for the Internationalisation of Public Administration (FIAP), emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration among government agencies, law enforcement, civil society, and international partners to effectively address trafficking issues. Leon acknowledged the efforts of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in this regard.
Leon highlighted that FIAP is implementing a European Union-funded project aimed at supporting migration governance in Nigeria, in partnership with NAPTIP, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and local partners. The project focuses on strengthening institutions, enhancing investigative capacities, and improving responses to human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
Mr. Mathias Esene of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) noted that stronger institutions and survivor-focused interventions are critical to combatting trafficking. Esene stated that ICMPD is working with NAPTIP on anti-trafficking education and advocacy initiatives, funded by the Government of the Netherlands, which combine prevention with institutional strengthening and improved support for survivors.
Mrs. Ojoma Ali, representing the Swiss Government, emphasized the potential of digital technology in strengthening trafficking prevention and facilitating victim assistance across borders. She cited the successful rescue of trafficked girls from Kogi State to Mali, facilitated through digital distress messages. Ali also stressed the need for technology-driven interventions to respect privacy, data protection, and survivors’ dignity.
The forum serves as a platform for government institutions, development partners, and civil society organizations to discuss strategies for preventing human trafficking and enhancing victim protection.
Source News Agency of Nigeria