National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has flagged-off nationwide step-down training on the reviewed data collection for the implementation of Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Human Trafficking.
The director-general of NAPTIP, Mrs Binta Bello, while opening the workshop yesterday, said the training was a critical milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to improve data-driven responses to human trafficking.
Bello, who was represented by the South East zonal commander of the agency, Mr Jonathan Ukpa,explained that the workshop was the culmination of the project tagged: “From Policy to Action – Implementation of the National Action Plan on Human Trafficking in Nigeria (2022–2026).
Bello explained that the agency in 2024 undertook an internal review of its data collection tools, introducing key improvements, including disability indicators to ensure more inclusive and accurate reporting.
“These revised instruments were further refined in collaboration with a consultant to align them with the project’s framework, culminating in the creation of a comprehensive national database and a dynamic data dashboard.
“The reviewed tools were pilot-tested during a training of trainers held in Abuja from July 1st to 5th.
“This workshop serves to cascade the knowledge to frontline officers across NAPTIP offices, State Task Forces, and partner Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
“I express deep appreciation to both the Swiss government and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for their sustained partnership and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking,” she said.
In his speech, the Enugu State attorney-general and commissioner for justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, commended NAPTIP for curbing human trafficking.
Udeh pledged the state government’s commitment and assistance to ensure that the agency gets the necessary support to ease its work.
On his part, NAPTIP’s director of Research and Programme Development, Mr Josiah Emerole, emphasised the role of data in combating human trafficking.
Emerole, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Rasheed Olatunji, noted that the training was coming at a time when the agency and the federal government, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, are focusing on evidence-based performance.
In his goodwill message, the UNODC country representative, Mr Cheikh Toure, commended the enthusiasm and commitment of stakeholders working at the frontline of Nigeria’s anti-trafficking response.
The country director praised the state government for supporting the NAPTIP State Task Force, stressing the need for strong sub-national partnerships in ensuring the sustainability of counter-trafficking efforts.
