Edo Govt Prioritizes Protection of Women, Children in Anti-Trafficking Drive

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to strengthening collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in the fight against human trafficking and related crimes across the State.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, made this known during a courtesy visit by a NAPTIP delegation to her office in Benin City. She described human trafficking as a dynamic and deeply disturbing menace that requires deliberate, coordinated, and sustained intervention from all stakeholders.

Mrs. Abdallah expressed concern over the growing vulnerability of young people, attributing it to shifting societal values and the increasing pursuit of quick wealth. She stressed that exploitation in any form including sexual abuse, forced labour, and other inhumane practices remains unacceptable and must be confronted decisively.

According to her, addressing the root causes of trafficking requires intensified value reorientation, strengthened parental guidance, and active community engagement. She reaffirmed the State Government’s resolve to safeguard women, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups by reinforcing institutional frameworks, expanding public awareness campaigns, and strengthening enforcement through coordinated inter-agency collaboration.

The Commissioner further emphasized the importance of deepening partnership with NAPTIP through improved coordination and enhanced communication channels. She also underscored the need to harmonize efforts with the Edo State Migration Agency to maximize collective impact and ensure a more robust response to trafficking concerns.

Earlier, the Benin Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, Barr. Sam Offiah, reiterated the agency’s mandate and outlined its comprehensive strategy built around prevention, protection, prosecution, partnership, and policy enforcement. He noted that NAPTIP consistently conducts public sensitization campaigns and works closely with stakeholders to reduce the incidence of human trafficking in Edo State.

Barr. Offiah also presented Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to the Commissioner to support ongoing statewide awareness initiatives aimed at preventing human trafficking and protecting vulnerable citizens.