The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has urged Nigerians to carefully verify all employment offers, particularly those received online, to avoid falling victim to human traffickers.
Director-General of NAPTIP, Hajiya Binta Adamu-Bello, gave the advice on Thursday at an event marking the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons in Abuja.
The event, attended by representatives of the Ministry of Justice, government agencies, civil society organisations and international partners, was held under the theme: “Trapped Behind the Scam.”
Adamu-Bello urged parents to engage more closely with their children and guide them in making informed decisions regarding migration, education and employment opportunities.
She also called on educational institutions to intensify awareness campaigns among students, particularly those seeking opportunities abroad, to help them identify deceptive recruitment schemes.
According to her, religious and traditional leaders should use their influence to discourage irregular migration and expose fraudulent promises often used by traffickers to lure victims.
The NAPTIP boss said the media must continue to disseminate accurate information while avoiding narratives that glorified irregular migration, quick wealth and other risky ventures.
She added that financial institutions, telecommunications companies and technology platforms should strengthen safeguards against financial crimes and online recruitment scams linked to human trafficking.
Adamu-Bello further urged transport operators, travel agencies and recruitment firms to remain vigilant and comply fully with existing regulations aimed at preventing trafficking-related activities.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, while government institutions continue to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, lasting success depends on the active participation of every segment of society,” she said.
“If you see suspicious recruitment activities, child exploitation, forced labour or any circumstance suggesting trafficking in persons, report it promptly.
“NAPTIP’s toll-free emergency line 627 remains available to receive credible information.
“Your identity will be protected, and your timely report could save a life. Indeed, trafficking thrives where silence prevails. It is defeated when communities become informed, vigilant and prepared to act.
“That is the Nigeria we must continue to build together,” Adamu-Bello said.
She reaffirmed NAPTIP’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons, dismantling trafficking networks and ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against human trafficking.
According to her, the agency’s response is anchored on prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership, with greater emphasis on preventing people from becoming victims.
“At NAPTIP, our response is guided by a comprehensive approach anchored on prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership. We firmly believe that while enforcement remains essential, prevention remains our strongest weapon.
“Every person who is adequately informed is one less potential victim in the hands of traffickers,” she said.
Adamu-Bello said the agency had intensified public enlightenment campaigns across communities, schools, markets, motor parks, places of worship and digital platforms nationwide.
She said the campaigns were aimed at educating Nigerians on the deceptive tactics used by traffickers and encouraging citizens to verify overseas job offers, scholarships and migration opportunities.
“We have also strengthened our engagement with young people, recognising that they are among the primary targets of traffickers who exploit unemployment, poverty, misinformation and the desire for better opportunities.
“Our message remains simple but powerful: If an opportunity appears too good to be true, pause, verify and seek professional guidance before taking any step,” she said. (NAN)
