Speaking at the Stronger Futures Dialogue organised by the University of Amsterdam in collaboration with the Oyo State Government at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, the Oyo State Commander of NAPTIP, Kayode Alfred, said the state’s proximity to the Republic of Benin makes it particularly vulnerable to trafficking activities.
“Oyo State is a source, transit and destination state for human trafficking. People are trafficked from Oyo State to other states and countries, while others are brought into the state for exploitation. Because Oyo State shares an international border with the Republic of Benin, it remains particularly vulnerable to trafficking activities,” Alfred said.
He explained that NAPTIP combats human trafficking through its 5Ps Strategy—Policy, Prevention, Prosecution, Protection and Partnership—which focuses on public awareness, law enforcement, victim rehabilitation and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Alfred commended the Oyo State Government for its sustained partnership with the agency, noting that NAPTIP works closely with the state’s Ministries of Women Affairs and Justice to support victims and ensure offenders are prosecuted.
According to him, the Oyo State Task Force on Human Trafficking, established in 2020, has strengthened the fight against trafficking through regular meetings, intelligence sharing, joint operations and capacity-building programmes involving security agencies and civil society organisations.
He warned that traffickers often lure victims with false promises of employment, scholarships and better living conditions, urging Nigerians not to allow desperation to make them easy targets.
“You do not have to leave Nigeria before you can succeed. Many people become victims because of poverty, unemployment or the desire for a better life. Desperation often makes them vulnerable to traffickers,” he said.
Alfred also cautioned residents to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online, noting that traffickers increasingly use platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to disguise fraudulent schemes as legitimate opportunities.
He further advised Nigerians to reject any offer that requires secrecy from parents, relatives or trusted friends.
“Be wary of anyone who tells you to keep an offer secret from your parents, family or friends. Genuine opportunities do not require secrecy,” he added.
Alfred thanked the Oyo State Government for its continued support and expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among stakeholders would further strengthen efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable people across the state.
