The Nigerian federal government has raised alarms about the increasing use of digital platforms by human traffickers to lure and exploit victims. The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice highlighted this concerning trend during a recent forum on human trafficking in Abuja.
The situation is described as a rapidly evolving and borderless threat that necessitates immediate action. Authorities emphasized that trafficking has transitioned into the digital realm, urging a swift and innovative response to avoid being outpaced by criminals utilizing advanced online tools. Human trafficking ranks as the third most lucrative criminal activity globally, following drug and arms trafficking. There is a call for enhanced legal, institutional, and technological measures to combat this issue effectively.
The fight against human trafficking is framed as essential for preserving human dignity, freedom, justice, and national integrity. State commissioners for Women Affairs are urged to promote policies and budgets aimed at combating trafficking and exploitation.
The Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) reported that over 7,000 trafficking victims were rescued and rehabilitated from 2022 to 2024. During this period, 205 convictions were secured, and more than 208 anti-trafficking vanguards were established in schools across the nation. NAPTIP has collaborated with international agencies to develop digital tools for better data collection and reporting on trafficking cases. Significant advancements include the reactivation of the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) data platform and the establishment of a digital center in Katsina. The emphasis is on the importance of collective action to combat human trafficking, with a clear message that efforts must adapt to the digital landscape.
The UNODC Country Representative praised Nigeria’s initiatives but stressed that effective policies must be matched with local action. Human trafficking is seen as an affront to dignity and a serious threat to national security and development. There are calls for improved coordination, stronger data systems, and survivor-led strategies to unite all stakeholders in this fight. The forum serves as a critical platform for shared visions among federal and state actors.
Recent recommendations have highlighted the need for an early warning system to identify at-risk individuals, particularly young girls. Nigeria is noted as the most affected country in Africa by trafficking, with vulnerabilities spanning all states. Urgent measures are needed to tackle underlying causes to reduce the risk of exploitation.
This report underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat human trafficking, leveraging modern technology and collaborative efforts among various stakeholders.
