Dr. Ama Onyerinma, Founder/Executive Director of Live Abundantly, revealed that Nigeria is facing significant challenges in its battle against human trafficking, child labor, modern slavery, and other forms of trafficking. She emphasized that the cartels involved have adopted increasingly sophisticated methods to lure victims from their homes.

The disclosure came during an event organized by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Live Abundantly, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and other bodies, held in Lagos to commemorate the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2023.

One of the highlighted activities during the occasion was a road walk aimed at enlightening traders, motorists, and the general public about the perils of human trafficking.

Dr. Ama Onyerinma noted that the scourge had experienced a temporary decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the cartels to operate more discreetly. However, she expressed concern that the practice has been resurging lately and urged the Federal Government and all stakeholders to intensify their efforts in combating this heinous act.

Speaking on NAPTIP’s endeavors, Frederick Uche Okoh, Head of Public Enlightenment, disclosed that in the past year, the agency has successfully arrested, investigated, and prosecuted numerous offenders, with ongoing investigations into others.

The fight against human trafficking and modern slavery remains a critical issue for Nigeria, requiring collaborative and sustained efforts from all concerned parties to protect the vulnerable and put an end to this grave injustice.