NAPTIP intensifies anti-trafficking awareness in Bayelsa

The Bayelsa State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has launched a two-day campaign to raise awareness about human trafficking, in commemoration of the 2024 World Day Against Human Trafficking.

The campaign, held in collaboration with key stakeholders, featured a road walk and a series of outreach events focused on educating residents about the risks of trafficking and encouraging community action to combat the crime.

Participants kicked off the road walk from Swali International Market to Bishop Dimieari Grammar School in Ovom. The event attracted widespread participation from government agencies, civil society groups, media organisations, and educational institutions.

Among the participating bodies were the Nigeria Immigration Service, Department of State Services (DSS), Fire Service, Civil Defence Corps, National Human Rights Commission, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), and several NGOs including the Do Foundation, 4S Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre, and the Lady Eunice Nnachi Foundation.

Students from Bishop Dimieari Grammar School, Government Science Technical College Swali, and Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education also joined the awareness efforts.

Representing the Acting State Commander, Fadewara Timiebiowei, NAPTIP’s Head of Public Enlightenment, Wariebi Sambo, urged students to become anti-trafficking ambassadors within their communities. He stressed the importance of education and vigilance in preventing the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

The event also featured goodwill messages from stakeholders, who praised NAPTIP’s commitment to public education and the fight against human trafficking.