Human Trafficking Crisis: Dabiri-Erewa Demands Bold, Unified National Action

The Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive, government-and-society-driven approach to effectively combat human trafficking in Nigeria.

Represented by the Commission’s Secretary, Sule Yakubu Bassi, Dabiri-Erewa made the call in Abuja during the Stakeholder Knowledge Exchange, Engagement and Partnership Programme (SKEEP). The event, titled Advancing Collaborative Responses to Human Trafficking in Nigeria, was organized by Open University UK in collaboration with the University of Ibadan, NAPTIP, the National Human Rights Commission, NiDCOM, the National Assembly, and the National Anti-Bullying Campaign.

Speaking on the need for strong inter-agency coordination, she urged key players—youths, traditional and religious leaders, relevant government agencies, embassies and high commissions, media, civil society organizations, and the private sector—to join forces in eradicating the menace of trafficking.

She highlighted NiDCOM’s ongoing partnerships with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NAPTIP, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and several state governments, noting that these collaborations have led to the repatriation of over 15,000 Nigerians from countries such as Libya, Oman, Ghana, Mali, Lebanon, and Côte d’Ivoire.

Dabiri-Erewa further stressed that it is crucial for the government to tackle both the push and pull factors that contribute to human trafficking in order to curb the trend.

Also addressing the gathering, NAPTIP’s Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, represented by Director of Research Mr. Josiah Emerole, outlined the agency’s five core strategies—Policy, Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnerships—which guide its fight against trafficking. She emphasized the importance of a victim-centered approach and reaffirmed NAPTIP’s commitment to eradicating the crime in Nigeria.