Lagos: The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Ikeja Branch, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has emphasized the need for joint efforts with various government bodies to tackle human trafficking in Nigeria. This call was made during a one-day training organized by the anti-human trafficking committee of FIDA’s Ikeja Branch in partnership with NAPTIP.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the training, themed ‘Strengthening Partnership in Combating Human Trafficking,’ was aimed at fostering collaboration among governmental agencies, civil societies, and NAPTIP to enhance the fight against human trafficking. Mrs. Nnenna Eze, Chairperson of FIDA, Ikeja Branch, highlighted the importance of these partnerships, noting that they would significantly strengthen efforts to combat human trafficking.

Mrs. Eze emphasized that the training was designed to educate branch members about the increasing incidences of human trafficking in the country and equip them with strategies to address the issue. She pointed out that the primary goals of FIDA include protecting the rights of children and women, and stated that many of the legal cases they handle involve domestic and sexual violence, which are often linked to human trafficking.

Mrs. Caroline Ibeh, Chairperson of the training committee, underscored the necessity of enforcing strict laws to curb human trafficking. She questioned the enforcement of existing laws, noting that influential individuals could sometimes obstruct justice. Ibeh stressed the need for accountability and the enforcement of laws to effectively combat the menace.

Mr. Fred Oko, facilitator of the training and Head of the Public Enlightenment Unit at NAPTIP’s Lagos Zonal Command, addressed the participants on the criminality of engaging minors as house help. He provided insights into the various forms of human trafficking, including sexual exploitation, illegal adoption, forced labor, and domestic servitude. Mr. Oko highlighted the staggering global human trafficking statistics and the control mechanisms used by traffickers, such as debt bondage and intimidation.