The Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Adamu Bello, OON, has called for renewed synergy among stakeholders across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to combat human trafficking in the region.
Bello made the call in Abuja during the official flag-off of the distribution of food items and essential supplies to survivors of human trafficking, under the ECOWAS-supported project aimed at enhancing victim protection in the region.
She emphasized that the West African sub-region remains highly vulnerable to human trafficking due to its porous borders and socio-economic challenges, making collective action among member states crucial.
“NAPTIP has always prioritized partnerships in the fight against human trafficking. This donation, facilitated by ECOWAS and implemented by IOM, highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in protecting victims and offering comprehensive care,” Bello stated.
The DG expressed appreciation to ECOWAS for their consistent support and lauded the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for its role in implementing the project.
“Through this partnership, we are able to provide critical support to survivors, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve,” she added.
The Nigeria Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, represented by Mr. Ehi Hillary Iyinbo, commended NAPTIP’s leadership, describing the agency as a model institution in Africa.
“NAPTIP’s remarkable achievements have earned international recognition. The DG’s leadership has significantly strengthened collaboration among member states,” Iyinbo said.
The ECOWAS Representative from the Directorate of Humanitarian and Social Affairs, Mr. Olatunde Olayemi, also hailed NAPTIP’s performance, noting that the agency’s achievements are widely studied and promoted across the continent.
In her remarks, the Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration (IOM), Paola Pace, emphasized the need to target the financial networks of traffickers.
“We must go beyond victim protection by freezing traffickers’ bank accounts and dismantling their networks. Prevention, prosecution, and victim protection must go hand in hand,” she stated.
The donated items included food, clothing, welcome packs, and other basic necessities to support survivors of human trafficking in Nigeria.
