News
French Government to Continue Supporting Fight Against Human Trafficking in Nigeria, Others
French Government to Continue Supporting Fight Against Human Trafficking in Nigeria, Others
By: Michael Mike
The French Government may likely continue in sponsoring the programme to end human trafficking in Nigeria and five other West Africa State.
This was disclosed on Thursday in Abuja at the closing workshop for the European Union (EU)-funded project to support the fight against human trafficking in the States of Gulf of Guinea.
Speaking at the occasion, Alessandra Bianca, the Protection Expert, Expertise France, the French agency for international technical expertise whose mission is part of France’s policy of cooperation, development aid, influence and economic diplomacy, said a lot has been achieved during the four years span of the programme and that is ongoing plan to keep the programme running.
She said: “In 2019, Expertise France obtained funding from the European Union and France for the implementation of the Regional Project to Support the Fight against Trafficking in Persons in six Gulf of Guinea Countries for a period of four years (2019-2023).
“The project aims to support the six partner countries (Togo, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Ghana and Nigeria) in strengthening their actions and capacities for a targeted and effective fight against human trafficking, according to the priorities set by the stakeholders and partners.
“The project focuses on four components, namely (i) institutional, operational and
preventive action consolidation, (ii) law enforcement, (iii) victim protection and (iv) regional cooperation. Through these four components, the project aimed to strengthen the capacities of the institutional systems and mechanisms to combat trafficking in persons.
“The fourth component, on regional cooperation, aimed to boost cross-border
cooperation and implement cooperation measures in accordance with existing bilateral and regional agreements, in partnership with ECOWAS.
“Our strategy of regional intervention fostered a unified approach, allowing us to tailor our responses to the unique needs of each country while fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
“Together, we bolstered institutional systems, enhanced law enforcement capabilities, and provided vital protection services to victims of trafficking.
“In Nigeria, our efforts have yielded tangible results. We provided care and support to 660 VoTs and Potential victims of trafficking while sensitizing over 40,000 migrants or potential migrants on the risk of irregular migration (through NACTAL and NGOs).
“Furthermore, critical infrastructure, such as the reception centre for victims of trafficking in Ondo state and the renovated NAPTIP office in Akure, has been revitalized to better serve our communities.
“In addition, a Data management system to store and analyze trafficking-related data was upgraded and Digital travel declaration platform was set up.”
She added that: “As we reflect on our accomplishments, let us also look to the future with optimism. Together, we will continue our efforts to build a world free from the scourge of human trafficking.
Bianca said with great things achieved and many more things to achieve, there is ongoing move to introduce the Phase 2 of the project to continue the good work.
Speaking at the occasion, the Director General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azu said: “While we celebrate our accomplishments today, let us also recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight against human trafficking. Our work is far from being over, and it is only through sustained collaboration and collective actions that we can create a world where exploitation and trafficking become relics of the past.”
Waziri-Azu who was represented by the Director of Intelligence (Research and Programme Development), Josiah Emerole, said: “Even as this project comes to an end, it is important to note that a lot still needs to be done, as such, we must continue to unite in seeking ways and means of strengthening our anti-human trafficking strategies and support for the survivors of the crime.
“To the Expertise France team, thank you for actively engaging with us in colaborative efforts to address the root causes of trafficking, and enhance victim protection. To the EU, thank you for the role you continue to play in ensuring human trafficking is curbed across the world.”
French Government to Continue Supporting Fight Against Human Trafficking in Nigeria, Others
Troops foil mob attack, rescue suspected terrorist in Danmusa in Katsina
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 17 Brigade have foiled an attempt by a mob to lynch a suspected terrorist and burn down a police station in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 4:30 p.m. on April 5, 2026, when troops deployed at Combat Team 1 in Danali village responded to a distress call from a Nigerian Police outpost in the area.
The police had reported that a large crowd attempted to set the station ablaze and attack personnel after a suspected terrorist was brought into custody.
Troops were immediately mobilised to the scene and successfully prevented further escalation of the situation, restoring order in the area.
During the intervention, police personnel reportedly fired tear gas to disperse the irate crowd, which led to injuries sustained by one civilian.
The injured victim was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.
Security sources said calm had since returned to the area, while troops continued to maintain presence to prevent a resurgence of violence and ensure stability.
Troops foil mob attack, rescue suspected terrorist in Danmusa in Katsina
Plateau: troops launch manhunt after armed robbery attack in Bassa LGA
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have launched a manhunt for suspected armed robbers who attacked three civilians along the Jebbu–Miango–Rewienko road in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 8:55 p.m. on April 5, 2026, when the victims were reportedly ambushed by armed men who dispossessed them of their motorcycles before fleeing the scene.
Troops of Sector 3 Operation Enduring Peace were immediately mobilised following the distress call but arrived after the attackers had escaped.
Efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects, while patrols have been intensified in the area to prevent further criminal activity.
Plateau: troops launch manhunt after armed robbery attack in Bassa LGA
News
GOC 1 Division visits Ariko community in Kaduna after church attack, urges stronger local vigilance
GOC 1 Division visits Ariko community in Kaduna after church attack, urges stronger local vigilance
By: Zagazola Makama
The General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Operation Fansan Yamma has visited Ariko village in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State following an attack on an ECWA Church in the area.
Security sources said the visit on April 5 was aimed at conducting an on-the-spot assessment of the incident and engaging with community stakeholders on measures to strengthen security.
During the visit, the GOC toured the affected church, surrounding areas, and access routes into and out of the village to assess operational challenges faced during response efforts.
He also met with the traditional ruler of Kachia, youth leaders, and other residents, where he commiserated with them over the attack and assured them of continued security support.
The GOC commended troops for their swift response, which led to the rescue of some hostages during the incident.
He further urged residents to strengthen local vigilance structures, including the formation of community vigilante groups to serve as first responders in emergencies.
He also advised that communities consider closer coordination among nearby churches with security coverage, while additional security measures are being implemented to enhance protection of lives and property.
GOC 1 Division visits Ariko community in Kaduna after church attack, urges stronger local vigilance
Troops foil mob attack, rescue suspected terrorist in Danmusa in Katsina
Plateau: troops launch manhunt after armed robbery attack in Bassa LGA
GOC 1 Division visits Ariko community in Kaduna after church attack, urges stronger local vigilance
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