Amid rising concerns over human trafficking in Delta State, the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has teamed up with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to launch a pilot project targeting 50 schools in the region. This initiative aims to adopt a comprehensive approach that not only addresses students but also involves teachers, parents, and local civil society organizations.
Dr. Mojisola Sodeinde, Head of the West Africa Region of the ICMPD, announced the initiative on Friday following a two-day workshop in Asaba, the capital of Delta State. Represented by Rhoda Dia-Johnson, Sodeinde emphasized that human trafficking has significantly impacted Delta communities, particularly vulnerable populations such as children.
“At this workshop, we acknowledge our esteemed donor, the Government of the Netherlands, along with our partners from NAPTIP and other government officials at all levels,” Sodeinde stated. “With over 75% of trafficking victims in West Africa being minors, the urgency of our mission is evident.”
The project, known as STEAP (Safeguarding Trafficking-affected Education and Adolescents in Partnership), aims to integrate a robust educational framework within schools, educating students about the risks of trafficking and empowering them to become vigilant guardians of their futures.
Sodeinde explained that the two-day workshop involved in-depth discussions about trafficking, especially concerning school-age children. She stressed the importance of understanding the dynamics of this issue, stating, “The essence of our work is to safeguard our future, a future where every child can pursue education without fear, and every community can thrive free from exploitation.”
The pilot phase will include training for teachers and school leaders in both primary and secondary schools. NAPTIP’s Director General, Mr. Binta Bello, represented by Director of Research and Programme Development Mr. Josiah Emerole, highlighted the significance of awareness campaigns against human trafficking. Bello noted that combating human trafficking requires collective efforts from federal, state, and local governments, as well as community involvement.
In a goodwill message, a representative from the Netherlands Embassy in Abuja praised the efforts of Sodeinde and her team in organizing the workshop for stakeholders in the education sector. “The prevention and fight against human trafficking is a key aspect of our partnership with Nigeria, with a particular focus on protecting children, who make up over 75% of the victims identified in West Africa,” the representative stated.
This partnership underscores the critical need for targeted measures to prevent child trafficking and support the reintegration of affected individuals into the educational system.