The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has intensified efforts to curb human trafficking with the inauguration of the Abia State Task Force on Human Trafficking in Umuahia. The initiative was carried out with the backing of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), marking another step in strengthening grassroots action against trafficking in Nigeria.
The inauguration ceremony was conducted on behalf of Alex Chioma Otti by the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu. The event drew key stakeholders, including NAPTIP Director General Binta Adamu Bello and IOM Chief of Mission Sharon Dimanche, represented by Migration Protection Officer Chibalani Katongo. Also present were the wife of the governor, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, and the wife of the deputy governor, Adaeze Chidera Emetu, alongside members of the state executive council.
In his address, Governor Otti described human trafficking as a serious violation of human dignity and trust, emphasizing its damaging impact on victims and society. He noted that establishing the task force represents a deliberate and strategic move by the state government to eliminate trafficking and related crimes. He further encouraged members of the task force to approach their responsibilities with commitment, describing their role as vital to restoring hope and securing a better future for citizens.
Speaking at the event, Binta Adamu Bello highlighted that human trafficking remains one of the most concerning forms of transnational organized crime, undermining development and human rights. She stressed that the newly inaugurated task force is more than a symbolic gesture, but a practical step toward community-level intervention. According to her, the initiative will improve coordination, enhance victim support, strengthen law enforcement, and most importantly, help prevent individuals from falling victim to trafficking.
IOM’s representative, Sharon Dimanche, revealed that Abia State becomes the 16th state to establish a task force with the organization’s support across Nigeria. She reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to providing technical assistance and collaboration within its core areas of operation to ensure the success of the initiative.
The task force comprises representatives from government institutions, civil society groups, and other critical stakeholders. It is chaired by the Abia State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna, with NAPTIP Abia State Commander, Okafor Nkemdilim, serving as co-chair.
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This development signals Abia State’s renewed commitment to tackling human trafficking through collaboration, policy implementation, and community engagement.
