Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has commenced a step-down training on its revised data collection tools for the implementation of Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Human Trafficking.
Speaking at the opening session, the Director-General of NAPTIP, Mrs. Binta Bello, described the training as a crucial milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance data-driven responses to human trafficking.
Bello, who was represented by the South-East Zonal Commander of the agency, Mr. Jonathan Ukpai, said the workshop is part of the project titled “From Policy to Action: Implementation of the National Action Plan on Human Trafficking in Nigeria (2022–2026).”
She explained that the agency, in 2024, conducted an internal review of its data collection tools, introducing key enhancements, including the addition of disability indicators to ensure more inclusive and accurate reporting.
“These revised tools were further refined in collaboration with a consultant to align them with the project’s framework, culminating in the creation of a comprehensive national database and a dynamic data dashboard,” she said.
According to her, the reviewed instruments were pilot-tested during a Training of Trainers (ToT) session held in Abuja from July 1 to 5.
“This workshop now aims to cascade that knowledge to frontline officers across NAPTIP offices, State Task Forces, and partner Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). I express deep appreciation to the Swiss Government and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for their continued partnership and unwavering support in Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking,” she added.
In his remarks, the Enugu State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, commended NAPTIP for its efforts in combating human trafficking and pledged the state government’s continued support for the agency’s work.
“We remain committed to assisting NAPTIP and ensuring it receives all necessary support to ease its operations,” he said.
Also speaking, NAPTIP’s Director of Research and Programme Development, Mr. Josiah Emerole, emphasized the critical role of data in the fight against human trafficking.
Emerole, who was represented by his Deputy Director, Mr. Rasheed Olatunji, said the training comes at a time when the agency and the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu are prioritizing evidence-based performance.
“Reliable data is the bedrock of accountability. This training equips participants with knowledge on the reviewed data collection instruments designed to improve evidence-based programming and coordination at national and sub-national levels,” he said.
He noted that the workshop aims to strengthen data collection and reporting related to the implementation of the National Action Plan.
In his goodwill message, UNODC Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, applauded the dedication of stakeholders working on the frontlines of Nigeria’s anti-trafficking efforts.
He announced that the next major milestone will be the launch of the National Action Plan Reporting Dashboard on July 30, in commemoration of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
Toure said the harmonised reporting tools reflect a strong emphasis on gender responsiveness and disability inclusion.
He also commended the Enugu State Government for its support to the NAPTIP State Task Force, stressing the importance of robust sub-national partnerships in sustaining the fight against human trafficking.
