Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi is the immediate-past Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). Before her appointment in 2021, she was Senior Special Assistant to former President Muhammadu Buhari on Rule of Law (Office of the Vice President). In this interview with Deputy News Editor JOSEPH JIBUEZE and GRACE OBIKE, she speaks on law reforms, administration of justice, battle against trafficking in persons, and her rule of law advisory role under in the last administration.
- Why traffickers target women, girls
- How they trap victims
- Judiciary bogged down by archaic systems
- How to tackle trial delays
What were the major challenges in the battle against child trafficking that NAPTIP under your leadership faced?
Child trafficking is a complex issue involving various factors, such as poverty, lack of education, cultural beliefs and an organised crime network.Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach beyond law enforcement. Child trafficking involves the trafficking of any persons below 18 years of age for various forms of exploitation mostly for sexual and labour exploitation within and outside Nigeria. Traffickers force victims into servitude in homes, construction sites, and begging, while others exploit them sexually in brothels, hotels, and homes.
Socio-economic and socio-political factors continue to exacerbate incidences of child trafficking across the country. For instance, poverty; unemployment; cultural beliefs; inordinate quest for quick wealth; greed, ignorance, corruption within various sectors’ task to ensure crimes like these do not take place; amongst others. There are cases of parents either directly trafficking their children or being complicit in facilitating the trafficking of their own children
On April 25, 2024, NAPTIP secured the conviction of a father, Solomon Terpase Chiana, who conspired with a Pius Aondoakaa to sell his eight-year-old son for exploitation or any other purpose. The court sentenced the two offenders, Solomon Terpase Chiana and Pius Aondoakaa, to five years’ imprisonment without the option of fine. There are so many cases like the case of this eight-year-old.
In some communities, child labour is a cultural practice that is accepted as a means for children to contribute to the family. This cultural acceptance can blur the lines between legitimate work and exploitation, making children vulnerable to trafficking under the guise of employment or apprenticeship. Where sending children away for work is a norm, traffickers exploit this cultural belief, promising parents that their children will receive education or better opportunities elsewhere, only to subject them to exploitation.
In terms of challenges, they are numerous, but I would highlight a few:
• Child trafficking is a largely hidden crime, with victims often kept out of public view and silenced through fear, manipulation, or coercion. This makes identification and rescue difficult.
• The laws in Nigeria regarding minimum age for employment are inconsistent and this is something we must harmonise if you intend to tackle issues of child trafficking.The Child Rights Act of 2003 restricts children under the age of 18 from any work except light work for family members.
Section 59(2) of the Labour Act provides that a person under 15 years of age shall not be employed or work in industrial undertakings. However, section 59(1) of the same Act, states that, “no child under 12 shall be employed or work in any capacity except where he/she is employed by a member of his/her family to perform light work of an agricultural, horticultural or domestic character”.
Section 277 of the Child Rights Act of 2003, provides that a child under 18 years shall not be “employed to work in any capacity except where he/she is employed by a member of his/her family to perform light work of an agricultural, horticultural or domestic character.”
Section 23 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act of 2015 (as re-enacted) provides that any person who employs, requires, recruits, transports, harbours, receives or hires out a child under the age of 12 years as a domestic worker, commits an offence.
Even where laws exist, enforcement can be inconsistent due to corruption and lack of resources.
• Poverty is one of the primary drivers of child trafficking. Traffickers may coerce or trick desperate families into giving up their children with promises of education, work, or a better life, only for the children to end up exploited. Many times, communities lack viable economic alternatives, making them more susceptible to traffickers who offer financial incentives.
• Limited resources for rehabilitation remain a major challenge. Even when rescued, child victims of trafficking often face inadequate support systems. Shelters, counseling, education, and vocational training programmes are frequently under-funded or poorly managed. NAPTIP operates 14 shelters across the country and partners with organisations that run homes and shelters for the rehabilitation of victims of trafficking. The agency tries to support victims as long as they need to be supported by providing psychosocial support, vocational, educational and employment empowerment.
• The rise of digital technology has provided traffickers with new tools to exploit children. The internet is used to recruit, groom, and exploit victims, often across multiple platforms that are difficult to monitor.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted whole of government and whole of society approach involving governments, NGOs, international organisations, and local communities.
According to reports, no fewer than 25,000 trafficked Nigerian women and girls were trapped in Mali. What does the agency do to secure the return of these trafficked victims?
Mali is not the only place where Nigerian women and girls are trapped, they are also trapped within the entire West African Corridor, Libya, and the Middle East. In 2023, NAPTIP rescued and received 2112. 1664 females and 448 males. Children made up 43.4 per cent of the total victims received in 2023 while 77.6 per cent of the total victims were females.
Victims of forced labour outside Nigeria had the highest number of victims rescued in 2023, with 23.7 per cent of the total number of victims received. Foreign travel which promotes prostitution had 15.7 per cent. Exportation of persons for prostitution and sexual exploitation was 15.1 per cent. Nigerian victims of trafficking rescued in foreign countries were also returned home. 26.5 per cent of Nigerian returned were from Benin Republic, 25.3 per cent from Ghana and 17.0 per cent from Burkina Faso.
Already, between January–May 2024, NAPTIP rescued and received 668 victims; 138 males (20.7 per cent) and 530 females (79.3 per cent). Nigerians returned were from Libya 44.8 per cent, Ghana 11.6 per cent and Chad 7.1. Other countries of rescue are Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Mali, Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroun, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Rescuing and repatriating victims of human trafficking is a complex process that requires careful coordination, sensitivity, and adherence to legal and humanitarian standards. NAPTIP receives complaints via several channels, call centre, Ireporter App, emails and social media channels. Once NAPTIP receives these complaints and conducts an initial investigation to assess the veracity of the complaint, the agency contacts the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Intelligence Agency for rescue and repatriation assistance through the local law enforcement agencies in the transit or destination country and the Nigerian Mission in that country.
Now, at the transit or destination country, once authorities identify a potential victim, they subject them to a screening process to confirm their status as a trafficking victim. This may involve interviews conducted by trained professionals who assess the person’s circumstances, vulnerabilities, and needs.
Local law enforcement agencies usually conduct rescue operations, sometimes in collaboration with NGOs or international organisations like the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). These operations are carefully planned to minimise harm to the victims and ensure their safety and also arrest the trafficker for prosecution by the transit or destination country. Alternatively, the transit or destination country may choose to extradite or deport the traffickers to Nigeria for prosecution.
Following a rescue, victims are often taken to a safe location where they receive immediate care. This may include medical treatment, psychological support, and provision of basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
The repatriation process often involves the Nigerian embassy or consulate. They verify the victim’s nationality, issue travel documents, and coordinate with NAPTIP to receive these victims on arrival to Nigeria.
Upon return, NAPTIP shelters may admit willing victims and offer them psychological counseling, medical and legal support, vocational training, education empowerment, and other forms of support like employment to help them rebuild their lives. Before reunification, family tracing is conducted to ensure that victims are reintegrated into a safe and supportive environment, thus avoiding re-traumatisation. The goal is not just to return victims to their country of origin but to ensure their long-term safety, recovery, and reintegration into society.
How successful was the agency in chasing after traffickers and following the money trail?
Well, over the years there has been an upward scale in the prosecution and convictions of human traffickers, as well as the investigation of thousands of offenders. In 2022, the agency secured 80 convictions, the highest in a single year since the inception of NAPTIP. The agency secured 66 convictions in 2023, the second-highest number, and from January-August 2024, 39 convictions have already been secured. Over 250 cases are being prosecuted before various courts of competent jurisdiction.
As the agency investigates the crime of human trafficking, it also conducts financial investigations by following the money. This it does in collaboration with the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). Following the money is a crucial strategy in the investigation of human traffickers, as financial transactions often leave a trail that can expose the networks and operations of traffickers.
Traffickers generate income through various illicit activities, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, and organ harvesting. Understanding the specific business model of the traffickers helps in identifying where and how the money flows. Mapping the financial network of human traffickers involves identifying all the entities involved in moving and laundering the money. Working closely with NFIU and banks allows NAPTIP investigators to Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) which can reveal patterns indicative of trafficking-related activities.
In addition, the agency can use legal mechanisms to freeze bank accounts, seize assets, and confiscate proceeds linked to trafficking. This not only disrupts the traffickers’ operations but also pressures them to cooperate with investigations. Given the global nature of human trafficking, international cooperation is essential. Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) allow for the sharing of financial data and evidence between countries, which is critical in tracking money that crosses borders.
NAPTIP has achieved a few successes in tracing, freezing, and the forfeiture of illicit assets of human traffickers, but there is still more to be done. This can only be achieved by strengthening collaboration with organisations like Interpol to facilitate information sharing, conduct joint operations, and coordinate efforts to dismantle trafficking networks. Additionally, there is a need for enhanced engagement with NGOs and the Private Sector.
Following the money in human trafficking investigations is a powerful tool that can dismantle trafficking networks, lead to the recovery of illicit profits, and ensure that traffickers face justice. By cutting off the financial lifeline of traffickers, we can disrupt their activities and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Trafficking of Nigerians to the Arab region was said to have increased in the last decade. Where are victims usually trafficked to, and for what purpose?
Yes, the trafficking of Nigerians to the Arab region has been on the rise because of a combination of socio-economic and socio-political factors, and organised criminal networks that exploit vulnerabilities. Also, in the last five years, the increase can be attributed to the COVID-19 Pandemic, which resulted in a sharp decrease in household incomes, forcing many families into poverty.
Many Nigerians, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, are lured by the promise of better job opportunities in the Arab region, which can be alluded to as one reason for the increase. Desperation for financial stability makes them easy targets for traffickers. The high demand for cheap domestic labour in many Arab countries, coupled with weak labour laws and limited rights for foreign workers, creates an environment where traffickers can thrive.
Certain cultural beliefs and practices also play a role, where families might encourage or even arrange for migration without fully understanding the risks involved. Many victims end up being trafficked to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Egypt, Lebanon, Iraq, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, to mention a few. These are primary destinations where many trafficked individuals end up, often under conditions of forced labour or sexual exploitation. Of course, a lot of the victims are females. I have only encountered one case in 2022, where a 26-year-old man was trafficked to Bahrain for sexual exploitation.
In terms of trends and patterns, there is a shift from traditional to digital recruitment. Increasingly, traffickers use social media and online platforms to recruit victims, making it harder for authorities to track.
Traffickers frequently use countries like Libya and Egypt as transit points before moving victims to their final destinations in the Arab region. Women and girls are the most targeted, particularly for domestic servitude and sexual exploitation. There has also been an increase in the trafficking of young men for forced labour. Traffickers trap many victims in debt bondage, coercing them to work off the inflated debt they incurred during their journey. This ensures that the victims remain under the control of the traffickers for years.
Are there gaps in human trafficking laws and policies that you think need to be addressed via amendments to aid the fight?
I can easily say that Nigeria has one of the best anti-human trafficking laws on the prevention, suppression and punishment of human traffickers. Since the enactment of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administration Act in 2003, lawmakers have amended and reenacted the Act in 2005 and 2015, respectively, as the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act 2015. The Act created NAPTIP, an agency with the authority to investigate, prosecute, and provide protection, which is a unique feature not found in many countries.
There was an opportunity to amend it in 2023. Even though the National Assembly passed the amendment bill, the then President did not assent to it.
Now, the Act provides for three broad categories of punishment that is:
• Conviction and fine for grievous offences like sexual exploitation, forced prostitution, organ harvesting, buying and selling of human being, slavery, child pornography or use of children in brothels, procurement or recruitment of person for armed conflicts and forced labour.
• Conviction without an option of fine applies to domestic servitude, and impersonation of a NAPTIP Officer.
• Conviction or fine applies to obstruction of justice and tampering with evidence and witness.
So, the parameters for sentencing are clear, and it is left to the judge to consider these parameters in sentencing. I understand that judges have the discretion, but they also need to consider the weight of the crime in sentencing. In adjudicating human trafficking cases, judges need to appreciate the dynamism in the means of proof and the nature of evidence needed to prove charges preferred against human traffickers, the dynamism of the testimonies of trafficked victims (minors and adults) and other extraneous factors that affect their testimonies.
On August 1, 2024, I did my inaugural lecture. The topic of my lecture was “The Interplay Between Corruption and the Human Trafficking Epidemic: Implications and Solutions for Nigeria.” One of the many solutions I proposed was that The Trafficking in Persons Act be amended to include corruption related human trafficking issues. I proposed the inclusion of a new section or the amendment of section 34, which provides for tampering with evidence and witness may be amended.
I recommended that Section 34 may also make it illegal “for a public official to use their office or position to impede investigation, prosecution or execution of a lawful order under the Act. The official shall be liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not less than seven years and to a fine not less than N2,000,000 or both. I equally recommended a second option that an additional subsection may also be added to provide that “any government official who issues travel document or facilitates the issuance of same without following the prescribed procedures provided for by law or assists in any means so that the offender of trafficking in persons may not be arrested shall be held liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not less than seven years and to a fine not less than N2,000,000 or both.
In terms of policy, in 2019 the then Honorable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice issued the Trafficking In Persons (Control of Activities of Organizations and Centres) Regulation 2019 as a crucial measure to prevent and reduce human trafficking. In essence, Regulation 2019 grants NAPTIP the authority to regulate, control, and issue clearance certificates to various entities, including travel agents, tour operators and intending travelers for educational excursion, recruitment of labor, sporting activities, cultural and music excursion or competitions and license to all organizations, shelters and homes offering services for rehabilitation of trafficked persons.
The Honorable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, recently approved the amendment of this Regulation to include, among other things, issuing clearance certificates to all labor recruitment companies or agents for the purpose of engaging and/or outsourcing domestic workers in Nigeria. This measure would curb the use of children as domestic works in homes.
To enhance the fight against human trafficking, we must continue to strengthen the legal framework and policies, coupled with rigorous enforcement.
Delays have continued to mar justice dispensation and delivery in Nigeria, encouraging impunity. What do you think the Judiciary and its administrators are not doing well or can do better?
• The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 (ACJA) was enacted to promote speedy dispensation of justice. Some of the key reform areas that the Act introduced relate to the time limit it sets for carrying out investigations, arraignment, and prosecutions of offenders, abolition of lay prosecutors, introduced time frame for remand orders, plea bargaining, and day-to-day trial of criminal cases and adjournments.
The Act further states that after taking the plea, the defendant can raise any objection before judgment, and the court will consider such an objection together with the substantive issues and make a ruling at the time of delivering judgment. What this means is that this provision has dealt with the incessant delays caused by the raising of many preliminary objections, unlike the old practice where ruling on a preliminary objection will be delivered immediately, or soon after the argument before the consideration of the main issues. By section 306 of the ACJA, an application for stay of proceedings regarding a criminal matter before the court shall not be entertained because stay of proceedings is used as a delay tactic.
Furthermore, judges are often overwhelmed with cases because of a high judge-to-case ratio. This heavy workload leads to delays in hearings and judgments. To tackle this issue, it is necessary to increase the number of judges and courts in order to reduce the workload on individual judges.
Many courts in Nigeria are under-resourced, with inadequate infrastructure, outdated technology, and insufficient staff. This results in slow case processing, lost files, and inefficiencies. There has to be more investments in modernising court infrastructure, including digital case filing systems, electronic records, and adequate staffing. This modernisation will help reduce manual errors, improve efficiency, and speed up case processing.
Lawyers commonly exploited legal technicalities and procedural delays to prolong cases. Frequent adjournments, frivolous applications, and delays in serving court documents are major contributors to justice delays. Judge must stick to the ACJA and other court Practice Directions to limit unnecessary adjournments and encourage speedy trials. The court should impose stricter penalties on defence lawyers and prosecutors who make frivolous applications and abuse court processes.
The underutilisation of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as mediation and arbitration, leads to an over-reliance on the traditional court system. This adds to the backlog and delays in case resolution. The judiciary should continue to promote and integrate ADR into the judicial system to resolve cases outside the traditional court process. ADR can significantly reduce the caseload and ensure quicker resolution of disputes.
To overcome delays in justice dispensation, the judiciary must focus on modernisation, efficiency, accountability, and capacity building. By addressing these critical areas, the judiciary can restore public confidence, reduce impunity, and ensure timely justice for all.
What are your thoughts on the idea of limiting the appeals that get to the Supreme Court?
In my immediate thoughts, I believe that the Supreme Court often faces an overwhelming number of cases, many of which involve appeals that do not necessarily raise novel or significant legal questions. By limiting appeals, the court can focus on cases with unique and broader legal implications.
However, limiting appeals might restrict access to the highest level of judicial review for individuals who feel aggrieved by decisions of lower courts.
This could lead to perceptions of miscarriage of justice, especially where significant errors are perceived to have occurred at the appellate level. While limiting appeals to the Supreme Court can enhance efficiency, it must be done with caution. It is important to put safeguards in place to ensure that access to justice is not unduly restricted and that the court can still address critical legal questions.
Having been on top of the Human trafficking fight, what do you think can stem the tide of trafficking in persons in Nigeria?
First, we need to keep addressing those social -economic and socio- political factors that push people to seek greener pastures. And this is the responsibility of everyone and not just the government, because we all have a stake in this country called Nigeria. Young people and their families need to remember that the grass is greener where you water it, and there is nothing like a free lunch. A free lunch is an illusion. If it is free then, you are obviously the product.
Enhanced Victim Support Services that would support victims for as long as they need to be supported to avoid being re-trafficked is vital.
Improved coordination between different law enforcement agencies in the fights against human trafficking.
Public Awareness Campaigns that continue to target vulnerable populations, including rural communities and urban poor communities, to inform them about the risks and how to seek help.
To address cross-border trafficking, it is crucial to enhance international cooperation by exchanging information, implementing good practices, and collaborating with other countries and law enforcement agencies.
Community involvement in anti-trafficking efforts and fostering a culture of vigilance and reporting.
We need technological solutions to track and combat trafficking networks. This includes monitoring online platforms where traffickers operate and using data analytics to identify trafficking patterns.
Can you take us through your journey to law, academia, and law enforcement?
My journey into law, academia, and eventually law enforcement is shaped by a passion for justice, an insatiable curiosity, and a deep desire to make a meaningful impact. My interest in law began early, driven by a sense of fairness and a keen interest in understanding the systems that govern society.
I pursued a law degree with the determination to use legal tools to create positive change. After completing my law degree, I knew I wanted to go beyond just practicing law; I wanted to explore how law could be a vehicle for broader social justice. This led me to further my studies, obtaining a Master’s and eventually a Ph.D. in law.
I earned my Bachelor of Law degree from the Faculty of Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003. I hold a Master’s degree in Intercultural Human Rights Law from St. Thomas University School of Law, Miami, Florida, a doctorate in law from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, Pennsylvania where I researched on corruption and good governance. In addition, I hold a Certificate in Public Leadership from the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Boston-Massachusetts.
My career began after NYSC at The Human Rights Law Service and Olisa Agbakoba Legal in Lagos, where I led on women’s rights and justice sector reform issues between 2005 and 2006. I served as a Legal Associate at the New York City Administration of Children Services, Division of Legal Services, from 2007 to 2008. My research in anti-corruption efforts further took me to Transparency International USA in Washington, DC, where I served as a Legal Fellow in 2009.
Upon returning to Nigeria in 2012, I joined the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies where I progressively rose to the rank of a Professor of Law, attaining the peak of my academic and professional career. My work in academia is incredibly fulfilling. It has allowed me to delve deeper into legal research, policy analysis, and teaching. I find joy in mentoring young lawyers and engaging in scholarly debates that have real-world implications.
I have over 45 publications in reputable local and international journals; I written and co-authored books and have presented over 70 papers at various workshops, roundtables, seminars, and conferences within and outside Nigeria.
In 2016, I was seconded to the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), where I provided programmatic support for various initiatives, contributing to the development of several policies, manuals and documents; coordinating and facilitating several trainings and conferences targeted at enhancing the efficiency of criminal justice sector actors and systems; among other achievements.
In November 2018, I was appointed Senior Special Assistant to Former President Muhammadu Buhari on Rule of Law, Office of the Vice President, where I provided advisories on anti-corruption, criminal justice sector reform, police reform, and sexual and gender-based violence issues. I undertook several projects that significantly contributed to policy formulation, strengthened institutional frameworks, and advanced the implementation of critical reforms in these areas. My work also included spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accountability of the justice system, as well as advocating for the rights and protection of vulnerable populations.
In September 2021, I was appointed as the 7th Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons. The transition into law enforcement was a natural progression. It was an opportunity to apply my academic knowledge, policy experience, and legal expertise to address one of the most pressing issues of our time—human trafficking. In this role, I was able to lead the charge against traffickers, advocate for stronger legal frameworks, and work closely with national and international partners to protect and rehabilitate victims.
To young lawyers, my advice is to remain curious, be courageous in your pursuits, always seek opportunities that align with your values and passions and surround yourself with people who see your value and remind you of it. Whether in the courtroom, the classroom, or in public service, the law is a powerful tool for change. Use it wisely and let your career reflect your commitment to justice and the greater good.
What is your advice to women occupying positions of leadership?
To every woman who occupies a position of leadership, my message is simple: Lead with authenticity, courage, and grace. Your journey to this point is a testament to your strength, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges that many may never fully understand. You are not just leading for yourself, but for the countless women who draw inspiration from you, and who one day hope to walk in your footsteps.
In leadership, you will face moments that test your tenacity and character, but remember that you are where you are for a reason. Sometimes you would have to decide between a bad choice and no choice at all, trust your instincts, embrace your unique perspective, and do not shy away from making tough decisions.
There will be times when you may feel the weight of expectations, but let that weight fuel your determination rather than cause you to doubt your worth. Surround yourself with allies who uplift and challenge you and are not afraid to tell you the truth.
Lean into the incredible power of collaboration and partnership, and do not hesitate to mentor the next generation of female leaders. Your legacy will be measured not just by what you accomplish, but by the paths you pave for others to follow. I tell you, there is no greater legacy than to help someone else win.
Above all, lead with compassion. A great woman shows her greatness by the way she treats others. The world needs leaders who can balance strength with empathy, vision with humility, and ambition with kindness. Stay true to your values, and never lose sight of the difference you are making. Be bold, be brave, and continue to shine with the grace of God.
As Director General of NAPTIP, what will you consider as your achievements within the period of your leadership in the Agency and what do you think has contributed to such successes?
As an agency, we have accomplished remarkable feats in just three short years. I credit this success to the unwavering dedication of the many men and women of NAPTIP who consistently turn the impossible into possible. These officers put their lives on the line daily so that we can all sleep more soundly at night. Human trafficking is one of the most lucrative global criminal enterprises, generating an estimated $150 billion annually. Combating these criminals is extremely perilous. My officers and I have received countless direct threats in connection with human trafficking cases, yet despite the dangers and risks, we have remained steadfast and undeterred.
Some of our key achievements and many firsts are:
o 190 human trafficking convictions from January 2022 to August 2024 representing 27.94%. of total convictions secured by NAPTIP in 21 years. Including for the first time the conviction of a law enforcement officer for human trafficking; 3 mutual legal assistance cases between Nigeria and Belgium, Spain and Italy and the extradition of a high-profile human trafficker to Italy.
o Ongoing prosecution of the first ever Trafficking in Persons for Organ Harvesting case in Nigeria between Federal Government of Nigeria versus Alliance Hospital Services.
o Increase in the rescue and rehabilitation of victims, surpassing previous records in 21 years
o Introduction of welcome packs for victims of human trafficking and sexual and gender-based violence.
o Expansion of NAPTIP Commands into 33 out of 36 States with the establishment of offices in Taraba, Kwara, Kebbi, Ogun, Jigawa, Zamfara, Ondo, Bauchi and 6 Liaison offices upgraded to State Commands that is Plateau, Yobe, Gombe, Rivers, Kaduna, Katsina.
o Improved donor support to NAPTIP through efficiency, effectiveness, transparency and accountability:
a. Secured 10 operational vehicles from donor partners within 2 years.
b. Development of the NAPTIP Ireporter App. Available on the Apple store and Google Play Store
c. Development of the NAPTIP Learning Management System- One stop shop for digital training for NAPTIP officers
d. Renovation of the NAPTIP Training Resource Center
e. Renovation of the male and female Detention Centre at the HQ
f. Renovation of NAPTIP shelters across the country
o Prioritized prevention through education amongst young people with the establishment of Anti-Human Trafficking and Violence Against Persons Vanguards in 154 across Nigeria from June 2022 to July 2024
o Introduction of regular mental health and trauma counselling sessions for officers to improve their productivity and overall wellness.
o Secured the increment and implementation of peculiar and rent allowance for NAPTIP officers by 25% and 50% respectively by the Federal Government.
o Employment of 4 victims of human trafficking in 2023.
o Conceptualization of the Survivors Co-Mentoring Series for victims of human trafficking and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
o Establishment of the NAPTIP Cybersecurity Response Team (N-CRT)
o Introduction of Conversation with NAPTIP, a digital forum live streamed via the Agency’s social media handles to converse with the public on the work of the Agency and to elicit feedback.
o Partnership with Meta and the launch of Amber Alert Nigeria on Facebook and Instagram aimed at assisting in locating abducted children by sending alerts to the news feeds of people in the targeted search areas of Nigeria.
o Disability Inclusion
a. Launch of the NAPTIP Disability Policy on July 27, 2023
b. Piloted the production of the Trafficking in Persons Act, the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act and other IEC materials in braille for the visually impaired
c. Production of audio visuals IEC resources for the deaf and blind in collaboration
d. Employment of 5 Persons with Disability.
What were the major challenges in the battle against child trafficking that NAPTIP under your leadership faced?
Child trafficking is a complex issue involving various factors, such as poverty, lack of education, cultural beliefs and an organised crime network.Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach beyond law enforcement. Child trafficking involves the trafficking of any persons below 18 years of age for various forms of exploitation mostly for sexual and labour exploitation within and outside Nigeria. Traffickers force victims into servitude in homes, construction sites, and begging, while others exploit them sexually in brothels, hotels, and homes.
Socio-economic and socio-political factors continue to exacerbate incidences of child trafficking across the country. For instance, poverty; unemployment; cultural beliefs; inordinate quest for quick wealth; greed, ignorance, corruption within various sectors’ task to ensure crimes like these do not take place; amongst others. There are cases of parents either directly trafficking their children or being complicit in facilitating the trafficking of their own children
On April 25, 2024, NAPTIP secured the conviction of a father, Solomon Terpase Chiana, who conspired with a Pius Aondoakaa to sell his eight-year-old son for exploitation or any other purpose. The court sentenced the two offenders, Solomon Terpase Chiana and Pius Aondoakaa, to five years’ imprisonment without the option of fine. There are so many cases like the case of this eight-year-old.
In some communities, child labour is a cultural practice that is accepted as a means for children to contribute to the family. This cultural acceptance can blur the lines between legitimate work and exploitation, making children vulnerable to trafficking under the guise of employment or apprenticeship. Where sending children away for work is a norm, traffickers exploit this cultural belief, promising parents that their children will receive education or better opportunities elsewhere, only to subject them to exploitation.
In terms of challenges, they are numerous, but I would highlight a few:
• Child trafficking is a largely hidden crime, with victims often kept out of public view and silenced through fear, manipulation, or coercion. This makes identification and rescue difficult.
• The laws in Nigeria regarding minimum age for employment are inconsistent and this is something we must harmonise if you intend to tackle issues of child trafficking.The Child Rights Act of 2003 restricts children under the age of 18 from any work except light work for family members.
Section 59(2) of the Labour Act provides that a person under 15 years of age shall not be employed or work in industrial undertakings. However, section 59(1) of the same Act, states that, “no child under 12 shall be employed or work in any capacity except where he/she is employed by a member of his/her family to perform light work of an agricultural, horticultural or domestic character”.
Section 277 of the Child Rights Act of 2003, provides that a child under 18 years shall not be “employed to work in any capacity except where he/she is employed by a member of his/her family to perform light work of an agricultural, horticultural or domestic character.”
Section 23 of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act of 2015 (as re-enacted) provides that any person who employs, requires, recruits, transports, harbours, receives or hires out a child under the age of 12 years as a domestic worker, commits an offence.
Even where laws exist, enforcement can be inconsistent due to corruption and lack of resources.
• Poverty is one of the primary drivers of child trafficking. Traffickers may coerce or trick desperate families into giving up their children with promises of education, work, or a better life, only for the children to end up exploited. Many times, communities lack viable economic alternatives, making them more susceptible to traffickers who offer financial incentives.
• Limited resources for rehabilitation remain a major challenge. Even when rescued, child victims of trafficking often face inadequate support systems. Shelters, counseling, education, and vocational training programmes are frequently under-funded or poorly managed. NAPTIP operates 14 shelters across the country and partners with organisations that run homes and shelters for the rehabilitation of victims of trafficking. The agency tries to support victims as long as they need to be supported by providing psychosocial support, vocational, educational and employment empowerment.
• The rise of digital technology has provided traffickers with new tools to exploit children. The internet is used to recruit, groom, and exploit victims, often across multiple platforms that are difficult to monitor.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted whole of government and whole of society approach involving governments, NGOs, international organisations, and local communities.
According to reports, no fewer than 25,000 trafficked Nigerian women and girls were trapped in Mali. What does the agency do to secure the return of these trafficked victims?
Mali is not the only place where Nigerian women and girls are trapped, they are also trapped within the entire West African Corridor, Libya, and the Middle East. In 2023, NAPTIP rescued and received 2112. 1664 females and 448 males. Children made up 43.4 per cent of the total victims received in 2023 while 77.6 per cent of the total victims were females.
Victims of forced labour outside Nigeria had the highest number of victims rescued in 2023, with 23.7 per cent of the total number of victims received. Foreign travel which promotes prostitution had 15.7 per cent. Exportation of persons for prostitution and sexual exploitation was 15.1 per cent. Nigerian victims of trafficking rescued in foreign countries were also returned home. 26.5 per cent of Nigerian returned were from Benin Republic, 25.3 per cent from Ghana and 17.0 per cent from Burkina Faso.
Already, between January–May 2024, NAPTIP rescued and received 668 victims; 138 males (20.7 per cent) and 530 females (79.3 per cent). Nigerians returned were from Libya 44.8 per cent, Ghana 11.6 per cent and Chad 7.1. Other countries of rescue are Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Mali, Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroun, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Rescuing and repatriating victims of human trafficking is a complex process that requires careful coordination, sensitivity, and adherence to legal and humanitarian standards. NAPTIP receives complaints via several channels, call centre, Ireporter App, emails and social media channels. Once NAPTIP receives these complaints and conducts an initial investigation to assess the veracity of the complaint, the agency contacts the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Intelligence Agency for rescue and repatriation assistance through the local law enforcement agencies in the transit or destination country and the Nigerian Mission in that country.
Now, at the transit or destination country, once authorities identify a potential victim, they subject them to a screening process to confirm their status as a trafficking victim. This may involve interviews conducted by trained professionals who assess the person’s circumstances, vulnerabilities, and needs.
Local law enforcement agencies usually conduct rescue operations, sometimes in collaboration with NGOs or international organisations like the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). These operations are carefully planned to minimise harm to the victims and ensure their safety and also arrest the trafficker for prosecution by the transit or destination country. Alternatively, the transit or destination country may choose to extradite or deport the traffickers to Nigeria for prosecution.
Following a rescue, victims are often taken to a safe location where they receive immediate care. This may include medical treatment, psychological support, and provision of basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
The repatriation process often involves the Nigerian embassy or consulate. They verify the victim’s nationality, issue travel documents, and coordinate with NAPTIP to receive these victims on arrival to Nigeria.
Upon return, NAPTIP shelters may admit willing victims and offer them psychological counseling, medical and legal support, vocational training, education empowerment, and other forms of support like employment to help them rebuild their lives. Before reunification, family tracing is conducted to ensure that victims are reintegrated into a safe and supportive environment, thus avoiding re-traumatisation. The goal is not just to return victims to their country of origin but to ensure their long-term safety, recovery, and reintegration into society.
How successful was the agency in chasing after traffickers and following the money trail?
Well, over the years there has been an upward scale in the prosecution and convictions of human traffickers, as well as the investigation of thousands of offenders. In 2022, the agency secured 80 convictions, the highest in a single year since the inception of NAPTIP. The agency secured 66 convictions in 2023, the second-highest number, and from January-August 2024, 39 convictions have already been secured. Over 250 cases are being prosecuted before various courts of competent jurisdiction.
As the agency investigates the crime of human trafficking, it also conducts financial investigations by following the money. This it does in collaboration with the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). Following the money is a crucial strategy in the investigation of human traffickers, as financial transactions often leave a trail that can expose the networks and operations of traffickers.
Traffickers generate income through various illicit activities, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, and organ harvesting. Understanding the specific business model of the traffickers helps in identifying where and how the money flows. Mapping the financial network of human traffickers involves identifying all the entities involved in moving and laundering the money. Working closely with NFIU and banks allows NAPTIP investigators to Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) which can reveal patterns indicative of trafficking-related activities.
In addition, the agency can use legal mechanisms to freeze bank accounts, seize assets, and confiscate proceeds linked to trafficking. This not only disrupts the traffickers’ operations but also pressures them to cooperate with investigations. Given the global nature of human trafficking, international cooperation is essential. Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) allow for the sharing of financial data and evidence between countries, which is critical in tracking money that crosses borders.
NAPTIP has achieved a few successes in tracing, freezing, and the forfeiture of illicit assets of human traffickers, but there is still more to be done. This can only be achieved by strengthening collaboration with organisations like Interpol to facilitate information sharing, conduct joint operations, and coordinate efforts to dismantle trafficking networks. Additionally, there is a need for enhanced engagement with NGOs and the Private Sector.
Following the money in human trafficking investigations is a powerful tool that can dismantle trafficking networks, lead to the recovery of illicit profits, and ensure that traffickers face justice. By cutting off the financial lifeline of traffickers, we can disrupt their activities and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Trafficking of Nigerians to the Arab region was said to have increased in the last decade. Where are victims usually trafficked to, and for what purpose?
Yes, the trafficking of Nigerians to the Arab region has been on the rise because of a combination of socio-economic and socio-political factors, and organised criminal networks that exploit vulnerabilities. Also, in the last five years, the increase can be attributed to the COVID-19 Pandemic, which resulted in a sharp decrease in household incomes, forcing many families into poverty.
Many Nigerians, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, are lured by the promise of better job opportunities in the Arab region, which can be alluded to as one reason for the increase. Desperation for financial stability makes them easy targets for traffickers. The high demand for cheap domestic labour in many Arab countries, coupled with weak labour laws and limited rights for foreign workers, creates an environment where traffickers can thrive.
Certain cultural beliefs and practices also play a role, where families might encourage or even arrange for migration without fully understanding the risks involved. Many victims end up being trafficked to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Egypt, Lebanon, Iraq, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, to mention a few. These are primary destinations where many trafficked individuals end up, often under conditions of forced labour or sexual exploitation. Of course, a lot of the victims are females. I have only encountered one case in 2022, where a 26-year-old man was trafficked to Bahrain for sexual exploitation.
In terms of trends and patterns, there is a shift from traditional to digital recruitment. Increasingly, traffickers use social media and online platforms to recruit victims, making it harder for authorities to track.
Traffickers frequently use countries like Libya and Egypt as transit points before moving victims to their final destinations in the Arab region. Women and girls are the most targeted, particularly for domestic servitude and sexual exploitation. There has also been an increase in the trafficking of young men for forced labour. Traffickers trap many victims in debt bondage, coercing them to work off the inflated debt they incurred during their journey. This ensures that the victims remain under the control of the traffickers for years.
Are there gaps in human trafficking laws and policies that you think need to be addressed via amendments to aid the fight?
I can easily say that Nigeria has one of the best anti-human trafficking laws on the prevention, suppression and punishment of human traffickers. Since the enactment of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administration Act in 2003, lawmakers have amended and reenacted the Act in 2005 and 2015, respectively, as the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act 2015. The Act created NAPTIP, an agency with the authority to investigate, prosecute, and provide protection, which is a unique feature not found in many countries.
There was an opportunity to amend it in 2023. Even though the National Assembly passed the amendment bill, the then President did not assent to it.
Now, the Act provides for three broad categories of punishment that is:
• Conviction and fine for grievous offences like sexual exploitation, forced prostitution, organ harvesting, buying and selling of human being, slavery, child pornography or use of children in brothels, procurement or recruitment of person for armed conflicts and forced labour.
• Conviction without an option of fine applies to domestic servitude, and impersonation of a NAPTIP Officer.
• Conviction or fine applies to obstruction of justice and tampering with evidence and witness.
So, the parameters for sentencing are clear, and it is left to the judge to consider these parameters in sentencing. I understand that judges have the discretion, but they also need to consider the weight of the crime in sentencing. In adjudicating human trafficking cases, judges need to appreciate the dynamism in the means of proof and the nature of evidence needed to prove charges preferred against human traffickers, the dynamism of the testimonies of trafficked victims (minors and adults) and other extraneous factors that affect their testimonies.
On August 1, 2024, I did my inaugural lecture. The topic of my lecture was “The Interplay Between Corruption and the Human Trafficking Epidemic: Implications and Solutions for Nigeria.” One of the many solutions I proposed was that The Trafficking in Persons Act be amended to include corruption related human trafficking issues. I proposed the inclusion of a new section or the amendment of section 34, which provides for tampering with evidence and witness may be amended.
I recommended that Section 34 may also make it illegal “for a public official to use their office or position to impede investigation, prosecution or execution of a lawful order under the Act. The official shall be liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not less than seven years and to a fine not less than N2,000,000 or both. I equally recommended a second option that an additional subsection may also be added to provide that “any government official who issues travel document or facilitates the issuance of same without following the prescribed procedures provided for by law or assists in any means so that the offender of trafficking in persons may not be arrested shall be held liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not less than seven years and to a fine not less than N2,000,000 or both.
In terms of policy, in 2019 the then Honorable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice issued the Trafficking In Persons (Control of Activities of Organizations and Centres) Regulation 2019 as a crucial measure to prevent and reduce human trafficking. In essence, Regulation 2019 grants NAPTIP the authority to regulate, control, and issue clearance certificates to various entities, including travel agents, tour operators and intending travelers for educational excursion, recruitment of labor, sporting activities, cultural and music excursion or competitions and license to all organizations, shelters and homes offering services for rehabilitation of trafficked persons.
The Honorable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, recently approved the amendment of this Regulation to include, among other things, issuing clearance certificates to all labor recruitment companies or agents for the purpose of engaging and/or outsourcing domestic workers in Nigeria. This measure would curb the use of children as domestic works in homes.
To enhance the fight against human trafficking, we must continue to strengthen the legal framework and policies, coupled with rigorous enforcement.
Delays have continued to mar justice dispensation and delivery in Nigeria, encouraging impunity. What do you think the Judiciary and its administrators are not doing well or can do better?
• The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 (ACJA) was enacted to promote speedy dispensation of justice. Some of the key reform areas that the Act introduced relate to the time limit it sets for carrying out investigations, arraignment, and prosecutions of offenders, abolition of lay prosecutors, introduced time frame for remand orders, plea bargaining, and day-to-day trial of criminal cases and adjournments.
The Act further states that after taking the plea, the defendant can raise any objection before judgment, and the court will consider such an objection together with the substantive issues and make a ruling at the time of delivering judgment. What this means is that this provision has dealt with the incessant delays caused by the raising of many preliminary objections, unlike the old practice where ruling on a preliminary objection will be delivered immediately, or soon after the argument before the consideration of the main issues. By section 306 of the ACJA, an application for stay of proceedings regarding a criminal matter before the court shall not be entertained because stay of proceedings is used as a delay tactic.
Furthermore, judges are often overwhelmed with cases because of a high judge-to-case ratio. This heavy workload leads to delays in hearings and judgments. To tackle this issue, it is necessary to increase the number of judges and courts in order to reduce the workload on individual judges.
Many courts in Nigeria are under-resourced, with inadequate infrastructure, outdated technology, and insufficient staff. This results in slow case processing, lost files, and inefficiencies. There has to be more investments in modernising court infrastructure, including digital case filing systems, electronic records, and adequate staffing. This modernisation will help reduce manual errors, improve efficiency, and speed up case processing.
Lawyers commonly exploited legal technicalities and procedural delays to prolong cases. Frequent adjournments, frivolous applications, and delays in serving court documents are major contributors to justice delays. Judge must stick to the ACJA and other court Practice Directions to limit unnecessary adjournments and encourage speedy trials. The court should impose stricter penalties on defence lawyers and prosecutors who make frivolous applications and abuse court processes.
The underutilisation of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as mediation and arbitration, leads to an over-reliance on the traditional court system. This adds to the backlog and delays in case resolution. The judiciary should continue to promote and integrate ADR into the judicial system to resolve cases outside the traditional court process. ADR can significantly reduce the caseload and ensure quicker resolution of disputes.
To overcome delays in justice dispensation, the judiciary must focus on modernisation, efficiency, accountability, and capacity building. By addressing these critical areas, the judiciary can restore public confidence, reduce impunity, and ensure timely justice for all.
What are your thoughts on the idea of limiting the appeals that get to the Supreme Court?
In my immediate thoughts, I believe that the Supreme Court often faces an overwhelming number of cases, many of which involve appeals that do not necessarily raise novel or significant legal questions. By limiting appeals, the court can focus on cases with unique and broader legal implications.
However, limiting appeals might restrict access to the highest level of judicial review for individuals who feel aggrieved by decisions of lower courts.
This could lead to perceptions of miscarriage of justice, especially where significant errors are perceived to have occurred at the appellate level. While limiting appeals to the Supreme Court can enhance efficiency, it must be done with caution. It is important to put safeguards in place to ensure that access to justice is not unduly restricted and that the court can still address critical legal questions.
Having been on top of the Human trafficking fight, what do you think can stem the tide of trafficking in persons in Nigeria?
First, we need to keep addressing those social -economic and socio- political factors that push people to seek greener pastures. And this is the responsibility of everyone and not just the government, because we all have a stake in this country called Nigeria. Young people and their families need to remember that the grass is greener where you water it, and there is nothing like a free lunch. A free lunch is an illusion. If it is free then, you are obviously the product.
Enhanced Victim Support Services that would support victims for as long as they need to be supported to avoid being re-trafficked is vital.
Improved coordination between different law enforcement agencies in the fights against human trafficking.
Public Awareness Campaigns that continue to target vulnerable populations, including rural communities and urban poor communities, to inform them about the risks and how to seek help.
To address cross-border trafficking, it is crucial to enhance international cooperation by exchanging information, implementing good practices, and collaborating with other countries and law enforcement agencies.
Community involvement in anti-trafficking efforts and fostering a culture of vigilance and reporting.
We need technological solutions to track and combat trafficking networks. This includes monitoring online platforms where traffickers operate and using data analytics to identify trafficking patterns.
Can you take us through your journey to law, academia, and law enforcement?
My journey into law, academia, and eventually law enforcement is shaped by a passion for justice, an insatiable curiosity, and a deep desire to make a meaningful impact. My interest in law began early, driven by a sense of fairness and a keen interest in understanding the systems that govern society.
I pursued a law degree with the determination to use legal tools to create positive change. After completing my law degree, I knew I wanted to go beyond just practicing law; I wanted to explore how law could be a vehicle for broader social justice. This led me to further my studies, obtaining a Master’s and eventually a Ph.D. in law.
I earned my Bachelor of Law degree from the Faculty of Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003. I hold a Master’s degree in Intercultural Human Rights Law from St. Thomas University School of Law, Miami, Florida, a doctorate in law from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, Pennsylvania where I researched on corruption and good governance. In addition, I hold a Certificate in Public Leadership from the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Boston-Massachusetts.
My career began after NYSC at The Human Rights Law Service and Olisa Agbakoba Legal in Lagos, where I led on women’s rights and justice sector reform issues between 2005 and 2006. I served as a Legal Associate at the New York City Administration of Children Services, Division of Legal Services, from 2007 to 2008. My research in anti-corruption efforts further took me to Transparency International USA in Washington, DC, where I served as a Legal Fellow in 2009.
Upon returning to Nigeria in 2012, I joined the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies where I progressively rose to the rank of a Professor of Law, attaining the peak of my academic and professional career. My work in academia is incredibly fulfilling. It has allowed me to delve deeper into legal research, policy analysis, and teaching. I find joy in mentoring young lawyers and engaging in scholarly debates that have real-world implications.
I have over 45 publications in reputable local and international journals; I written and co-authored books and have presented over 70 papers at various workshops, roundtables, seminars, and conferences within and outside Nigeria.
In 2016, I was seconded to the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), where I provided programmatic support for various initiatives, contributing to the development of several policies, manuals and documents; coordinating and facilitating several trainings and conferences targeted at enhancing the efficiency of criminal justice sector actors and systems; among other achievements.
In November 2018, I was appointed Senior Special Assistant to Former President Muhammadu Buhari on Rule of Law, Office of the Vice President, where I provided advisories on anti-corruption, criminal justice sector reform, police reform, and sexual and gender-based violence issues. I undertook several projects that significantly contributed to policy formulation, strengthened institutional frameworks, and advanced the implementation of critical reforms in these areas. My work also included spearheading initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accountability of the justice system, as well as advocating for the rights and protection of vulnerable populations.
In September 2021, I was appointed as the 7th Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons. The transition into law enforcement was a natural progression. It was an opportunity to apply my academic knowledge, policy experience, and legal expertise to address one of the most pressing issues of our time—human trafficking. In this role, I was able to lead the charge against traffickers, advocate for stronger legal frameworks, and work closely with national and international partners to protect and rehabilitate victims.
To young lawyers, my advice is to remain curious, be courageous in your pursuits, always seek opportunities that align with your values and passions and surround yourself with people who see your value and remind you of it. Whether in the courtroom, the classroom, or in public service, the law is a powerful tool for change. Use it wisely and let your career reflect your commitment to justice and the greater good.
What is your advice to women occupying positions of leadership?
To every woman who occupies a position of leadership, my message is simple: Lead with authenticity, courage, and grace. Your journey to this point is a testament to your strength, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges that many may never fully understand. You are not just leading for yourself, but for the countless women who draw inspiration from you, and who one day hope to walk in your footsteps.
In leadership, you will face moments that test your tenacity and character, but remember that you are where you are for a reason. Sometimes you would have to decide between a bad choice and no choice at all, trust your instincts, embrace your unique perspective, and do not shy away from making tough decisions.
There will be times when you may feel the weight of expectations, but let that weight fuel your determination rather than cause you to doubt your worth. Surround yourself with allies who uplift and challenge you and are not afraid to tell you the truth.
Lean into the incredible power of collaboration and partnership, and do not hesitate to mentor the next generation of female leaders. Your legacy will be measured not just by what you accomplish, but by the paths you pave for others to follow. I tell you, there is no greater legacy than to help someone else win.
Above all, lead with compassion. A great woman shows her greatness by the way she treats others. The world needs leaders who can balance strength with empathy, vision with humility, and ambition with kindness. Stay true to your values, and never lose sight of the difference you are making. Be bold, be brave, and continue to shine with the grace of God.
As Director General of NAPTIP, what will you consider as your achievements within the period of your leadership in the Agency and what do you think has contributed to such successes?
As an agency, we have accomplished remarkable feats in just three short years. I credit this success to the unwavering dedication of the many men and women of NAPTIP who consistently turn the impossible into possible. These officers put their lives on the line daily so that we can all sleep more soundly at night. Human trafficking is one of the most lucrative global criminal enterprises, generating an estimated $150 billion annually. Combating these criminals is extremely perilous. My officers and I have received countless direct threats in connection with human trafficking cases, yet despite the dangers and risks, we have remained steadfast and undeterred.
Some of our key achievements and many firsts are:
o 190 human trafficking convictions from January 2022 to August 2024 representing 27.94%. of total convictions secured by NAPTIP in 21 years. Including for the first time the conviction of a law enforcement officer for human trafficking; 3 mutual legal assistance cases between Nigeria and Belgium, Spain and Italy and the extradition of a high-profile human trafficker to Italy.
o Ongoing prosecution of the first ever Trafficking in Persons for Organ Harvesting case in Nigeria between Federal Government of Nigeria versus Alliance Hospital Services.
o Increase in the rescue and rehabilitation of victims, surpassing previous records in 21 years
o Introduction of welcome packs for victims of human trafficking and sexual and gender-based violence.
o Expansion of NAPTIP Commands into 33 out of 36 States with the establishment of offices in Taraba, Kwara, Kebbi, Ogun, Jigawa, Zamfara, Ondo, Bauchi and 6 Liaison offices upgraded to State Commands that is Plateau, Yobe, Gombe, Rivers, Kaduna, Katsina.
o Improved donor support to NAPTIP through efficiency, effectiveness, transparency and accountability:
a. Secured 10 operational vehicles from donor partners within 2 years.
b. Development of the NAPTIP Ireporter App. Available on the Apple store and Google Play Store
c. Development of the NAPTIP Learning Management System- One stop shop for digital training for NAPTIP officers
d. Renovation of the NAPTIP Training Resource Center
e. Renovation of the male and female Detention Centre at the HQ
f. Renovation of NAPTIP shelters across the country
o Prioritized prevention through education amongst young people with the establishment of Anti-Human Trafficking and Violence Against Persons Vanguards in 154 across Nigeria from June 2022 to July 2024
o Introduction of regular mental health and trauma counselling sessions for officers to improve their productivity and overall wellness.
o Secured the increment and implementation of peculiar and rent allowance for NAPTIP officers by 25% and 50% respectively by the Federal Government.
o Employment of 4 victims of human trafficking in 2023.
o Conceptualization of the Survivors Co-Mentoring Series for victims of human trafficking and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
o Establishment of the NAPTIP Cybersecurity Response Team (N-CRT)
o Introduction of Conversation with NAPTIP, a digital forum live streamed via the Agency’s social media handles to converse with the public on the work of the Agency and to elicit feedback.
o Partnership with Meta and the launch of Amber Alert Nigeria on Facebook and Instagram aimed at assisting in locating abducted children by sending alerts to the news feeds of people in the targeted search areas of Nigeria.
o Disability Inclusion
a. Launch of the NAPTIP Disability Policy on July 27, 2023
b. Piloted the production of the Trafficking in Persons Act, the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act and other IEC materials in braille for the visually impaired
c. Production of audio visuals IEC resources for the deaf and blind in collaboration
d. Employment of 5 Persons with Disability.
