The program educated students about trafficking for sexual exploitation, both domestically and internationally, as well as related crimes such as child labor, migrant smuggling, and illegal adoption schemes. The students showed enthusiasm and appreciation for the training.
Over 500 students from Ifedapo Community Comprehensive High School in Abalabi, Ogun State, recently participated in a sensitization program about the dangers of human trafficking.
The program, led by Mrs. Bosede Jimoh, Ogun Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), aimed to educate students on the risks and consequences of human trafficking.
Mrs. Jimoh emphasized the importance of educating children early to prevent them from becoming victims of traffickers. She noted that young people are often targeted by traffickers, who exploit their vulnerability and lack of awareness.
The NAPTIP commander highlighted the need for awareness programs in schools nationwide, stressing that such initiatives can empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves and others from traffickers.
During the program, the students learned about the severe physical, emotional, and psychological trauma that trafficking inflicts on its victims.
They were educated on the tactics used by traffickers, including deception, coercion, and manipulation, and the long-term consequences of trafficking, such as physical and emotional abuse, loss of dignity, and psychological trauma.
By educating students about the dangers of human trafficking, the program aimed to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions and avoid situations that could put them at risk.
The initiative also underscored the importance of collaboration between schools, government agencies, and communities in preventing human trafficking and protecting vulnerable populations.
The sensitization campaign is part of the Schools Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP), a broader initiative funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development in collaboration with NAPTIP.
According to Mrs. Jimoh, the program educated students about trafficking for sexual exploitation, both domestically and internationally, as well as related crimes such as child labor, migrant smuggling, and illegal adoption schemes. The students showed enthusiasm and appreciation for the training.
Since its launch in August 2023, the Ogun NAPTIP command has achieved two convictions, with ongoing cases in court.
Additionally, 30 students were inducted into the Anti-Trafficking and Violence Prevention Vanguard Club. Mrs. Jimoh reaffirmed NAPTIP’s commitment to protecting Ogun residents from trafficking through sustained awareness campaigns.