By Daniel Karlmax.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Kaduna State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to rescuing, rehabilitating and reintegrating victims of human trafficking in Kaduna State and across Nigeria as part of efforts to promote socio-economic growth and development.
The agency also disclosed that, in collaboration with other security agencies, it is strengthening efforts through a state task force to arrest, investigate and prosecute human traffickers in order to reduce the menace to the barest minimum.
The Kaduna State Commander of NAPTIP, Mr. Labaran Ado Tanimu stated this during activities marking the 2026 World Day Against Human Trafficking, themed “Trapped in the Scam,” held at the Kaduna State Ministry of Justice.
According to him, the Kaduna State Government has demonstrated its commitment to combating human trafficking by inaugurating a State Task Force chaired by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, with the NAPTIP State Commander serving as co-chair.
Tanimu explained that NAPTIP works closely with security agencies, civil society organisations, government institutions, non-governmental organisations, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media in tackling the crime.
“Generally, NAPTIP has remained at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking. Since its establishment in 2003, the agency has secured over 800 convictions nationwide. In Kaduna State, where the command commenced operations in 2021, we have recorded four convictions, about 12 cases currently before the courts, while several others are under investigation,” he said.
The commander also revealed that the agency recently repatriated two trafficking survivors from Côte d’Ivoire through collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, the agency’s Lagos Zonal Command and its partners in Côte d’Ivoire
Tanimu expressed concern that people are trafficked daily through various forms of exploitation, including organ harvesting, sexual exploitation, and forced labor, adding that babies are also stolen during trafficking operations.
“If victims are not trafficked from Kaduna, they pass through the state on their way to other states or outside the country. Human trafficking activities occur here almost every day,” he said.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Trapped in the Scam,” Tanimu said traffickers increasingly exploit technology to deceive vulnerable persons, particularly young people searching for better opportunities.
According to him, traffickers establish direct communication with victims through online platforms, lure them with attractive job offers and instruct them not to inform anyone about their plans until they eventually realise they have fallen victim to a scam.
“Our message to traffickers is clear—we are after you. Everyone is an agent of information. Members of the public should report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities because fighting human trafficking is everyone’s responsibility.”
“Most survivors are vulnerable people. Parents must be more alert and create awareness within their families and communities. When everyone understands the dangers, we can collectively reduce the menace.” He added.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. James Kanyip reaffirmed the Kaduna State Government’s commitment to preventing human trafficking, prosecuting offenders, and protecting victims.
Represented by the Solicitor General, Jumai Adamu Dan Azumi, the Attorney General, urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspected trafficking cases to the appropriate authorities.
“Let us all unite against child and women trafficking. Human trafficking thrives in silence, but Kaduna State has chosen to speak out. We all have a responsibility to report suspicious activities.”
“Kaduna State maintains zero tolerance for human trafficking and remains committed to prevention, prosecution, and protection of victims.” He said.
Chairperson of the Civil Society Coalition Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Kaduna State, Bukola Ajao, described the World Day Against Human Trafficking as an important platform for raising awareness on the tactics employed by traffickers.
She explained that trafficking involves recruitment, transportation, transfer, and exploitation of victims for prostitution, forced labour, and organ harvesting.
According to her, this year’s theme is particularly relevant because traffickers now exploit modern technology and social media to deceive unsuspecting victims.
“Technology is meant to improve lives, but criminals now use it to lure people with fake job offers, contracts, seminars, and workshops. Victims are promised attractive salaries and opportunities only to discover they have been trapped.”
She urged parents to monitor their children’s movements during the school holiday, stressing that many traffickers target children and young people during such periods.
“Parents should know where their children are spending the holidays and who they are staying with. They should also be cautious when sending children on errands, as traffickers often take advantage of such opportunities.”
Representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and other stakeholders delivered goodwill messages, pledging stronger collaboration in combating human trafficking.
The commemorative event attracted representatives of civil society organisations, security agencies, non-governmental organisations, and the media and government officials, all united in the campaign against human trafficking.
Daniel Karlmax.
