NAPTIP Warns Nigerians About New Human Trafficking Tactics

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has issued a warning to Nigerians about new tactics being used by human traffickers to lure unsuspecting victims into various forms of exploitation.

The traffickers are exploiting global brand trademarks and offering fake job offers in oil and gas industries to traffic people, particularly young adults, to neighboring West African countries.

According to NAPTIP director-general Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, traffickers promise victims monthly incomes of up to $900 and instruct them to bring up to N850,000 for documentation and other expenses.

Upon arrival at their destination, traffickers confiscate the money, phones, and personal belongings of the victims.

The targeted demographic includes male and female victims aged between 15 and 35 years old, who are trafficked through the waterways of Ode Jetty in Lagos en route to Benin Republic and other parts of the West African region.

Some victims are also trafficked via land routes.

Prof. Waziri-Azi has urged Nigerians to be cautious and not let desperation cloud their judgement.

She advises people to ask questions, seek a second opinion, and be skeptical of tempting job offers.

This alarming trend highlights the importance of continued efforts by NAPTIP and other organizations to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable populations.

By raising awareness and providing timely information, these organizations aim to reduce the vulnerability of potential victims and prevent them from falling prey to these exploitative schemes.