The Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Fatima Waziri-Azi, has issued a strong warning to youths nationwide regarding the deceptive tactics employed by human traffickers disguising themselves as helpers.
During her address at the Government Day Secondary School, Dutse-Alhaji, Abuja, in commemoration of the 2023, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Waziri-Azi emphasized that these individuals aim to deceive and derail the future dreams and aspirations of unsuspecting youths.
According to a press statement by NAPTIP’s Press Officer, Vincent Adekoya, the Director General highlighted the ongoing initiative of inaugurating Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Violence Against Persons Vanguard in secondary schools. This initiative marks the 104th Vanguard inaugurated by the agency with support from the Ford Foundation.
The primary objective of the Vanguard is to provide a platform for students to receive education on issues related to human trafficking and violence against persons. The intention is to empower students to educate others within their schools, homes, and communities.
“Education is not just a tool for preventing trafficking; it is a shield that empowers individuals to recognize the signs and protect themselves and others,” stressed Waziri-Azi.
The Director General also emphasized the responsibility of students as advocates against the crimes of human trafficking and violence against persons. They are encouraged to recognize the red flags for these crimes and know the various reporting channels available to report such cases.
Since last year, NAPTIP has inaugurated 103 vanguards across the country, comprised of Federal Government Unity Schools, military schools, government schools, faith-based schools, and the Abuja School for the Deaf.
The warning from the Director General serves as a reminder to youths nationwide to be vigilant and avoid falling victim to the deceptive tactics used by human traffickers seeking to exploit and harm them.
