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UNODC: Human Trafficking, Assault on Human Dignity Not Just A Crime
UNODC: Human Trafficking, Assault on Human Dignity Not Just A Crime
By: Michael Mike
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), has described human trafficking as an assault on human dignity not just a crime.
Speaking at the 27th National Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum (NSCF) on Human Trafficking organised by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) on Wednesday in Abuja, the Country Representative of the UNODC in Nigeria, Cheikh Toure, while lauding Nigeria’s fight against Human trafficking, said: “Human trafficking isn’t just a crime, it’s an assault on dignity, a drag on development, and a threat to national security.”
Toure added that: “This forum remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s national response to trafficking. It’s where policy meets practice, federal and state actors converging around a shared vision of a trafficking-free Nigeria.”
He noted that “the importance of a multisectoral, victim-focused, and relentless response,” while acknowledging the joint efforts of NAPTIP and UNODC under the “From Policy to Action” project, supported by the Swiss government.
He also lauded the DG of NAPTIP for her leadership role and also commended contributions from the Attorney General, of the federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), state governments, development partners including the European Union (EU), France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the Economic Communities of West African States (ECOWAS), the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD, and various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the war against human trafficking.
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who gave the keynote address, called on state’s Commissioners for Women Affairs to leverage on their strategic positions to advocate and influence state budgets and policies.
He said: “I urge Commissioners for Women Affairs across the country to leverage their strategic positions to advocate and influence state-level policies, budgets, and programmes that directly or indirectly impact trafficking and exploitation.
“Creation of a budget line for State Task Force activities is highly recommended as it would also guarantee the institutionalization of State Task Forces on human Trafficking in the states.”
In his words “The Federal Ministry of Justice remains committed to supporting NAPTIP through continuous policy formulation, legal reforms, strategic coordination, and high-level advocacy. Let me assure you that we will continue to work closely with NAPTIP and other partners to ensure that the legal and institutional frameworks for tackling trafficking remain dynamic, responsive, and effective.
The Swiss Ambassador to Belgium and NATO, Jacques Pitteloud, in his goodwill message also lauded Nigeria’s progress and reaffirmed Switzerland’s long-term support.
He called for international cooperation in addressing root causes of trafficking and commended NAPTIP’s efforts under the “From Policy to Action” project.
“Our partnership with Nigeria goes beyond financial contribution. It is built on trust, shared priorities, and joint ownership. We’re especially encouraged by the involvement of local governments, signaling a grassroots approach to combating trafficking,” Pitteloud said.
He also noted the development of a new dashboard and reporting hub, as well as the inclusion of critical actors like the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in the national response.
Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Bello, in her welcome address highlighted key achievements under the agency’s 5Ps strategy: Policy, Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership.
She noted that over 7,000 victims have been rescued between 2022 and 2024, with 205 convictions secured within the same period.
She also announced the development of new digital tools to enhance data reporting, increased public awareness campaigns, the inauguration of over 200 Anti-TIP school vanguards, and the expansion of State Task Forces to 24 states.
“We are proud of the milestones achieved, from setting up the Human Trafficking Digital Centre in Katsina to revamping our training center with German support. Yet, the road ahead requires deeper collaboration and renewed commitment at all levels,” Bello said.
UNODC: Human Trafficking, Assault on Human Dignity Not Just A Crime
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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Anti-Drug War as NDLEA Officers Graduate from U.S. DEA Academy
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Anti-Drug War as NDLEA Officers Graduate from U.S. DEA Academy
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening global collaboration in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and transnational organised crime as officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) completed advanced training at the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Friday, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), said the increasing sophistication of criminal networks across borders requires deeper international cooperation and a coordinated global offensive.
Marwa stressed that criminal syndicates no longer operate within isolated territories, making intelligence sharing, joint operations and capacity building among nations indispensable in dismantling drug cartels and organised crime groups.
The ceremony, held at the elite DEA Training Academy, brought together officers from Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya for an intensive programme designed to sharpen investigative, operational and strategic enforcement capabilities. Participants were equipped with advanced skills to combat complex drug trafficking networks and related transnational crimes.
Describing the event as deeply significant, Marwa noted that the course was dedicated to members of the Special Investigative Unit (SIU) who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. He paid tribute to the fallen officers, describing them as heroes whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire law enforcement agencies worldwide.
Referencing the course motto, “Different nations, shared duty, one fight,” Marwa said it captured the collective resolve of partner countries against the global drug menace. He emphasised that only a unified, intelligence-driven response can effectively confront criminal enterprises that thrive on cross-border operations.
The NDLEA boss expressed confidence that the knowledge and competencies acquired by the graduating officers would significantly enhance the operational effectiveness of their respective agencies. He charged them to apply the training with integrity, professionalism and courage upon returning home, while upholding the highest standards of service.
Marwa also conveyed Nigeria’s appreciation to the United States Department of Justice, the DEA leadership and instructors for their continued mentorship and investment in capacity development.
He said the graduation marked not the end of training but the beginning of renewed responsibility, urging the officers to protect vulnerable communities and confront criminality wherever it threatens societal stability.
Marwa expressed optimism that the partnership between the NDLEA and the DEA would continue to deepen, yielding sustained success in the shared fight against illicit drugs and organised crime.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Anti-Drug War as NDLEA Officers Graduate from U.S. DEA Academy
VP Shettima Attends High-Level Meeting On Africa’s Health Security Sovereignty
By: Our Reporter
Shortly after his bilateral discussions with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Vice President Kashim Shettima moved on to a high-level meeting on Building Africa’s Health Security Sovereignty on the sidelines of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The session, organized by Africa CDC and fully supported by the Nigerian government, convenes African leaders and health policymakers to chart the path toward strengthening the continent’s health emergency preparedness, response systems, and pharmaceutical independence.
Joining the Vice President at the meeting are key Nigerian officials including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yussuf Tuggar.
Other African health ministers in attendance include Dr. Ibrahim Sy of Senegal, Madalisto Baloyi of Malawi, and Dr. Mekdes Daba of Ethiopia.
VP Shettima Attends High-Level Meeting On Africa’s Health Security Sovereignty
ISWAP suspected in Baga abduction of five civilians
By: Zagazola Makama
Five civilians were abducted on Feb. 12, 2026, by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Doro Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area, Borno State, the Police Command reported.
Sources disclosed that the victims, Alhaji Sani Boyi, Bullama Dan Umaru, Baba Inusa, Abubakar Jan Boris, and Mallam Shaibu, were taken while purchasing fresh fish at a local market around 7:00 a.m.
The troops of Sector 3 Operation HADIN KAI, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)/hunters immediately responded to the incident.
Relevant intelligence has been gathered, and search and rescue operations are ongoing to secure the release of the victims.
ISWAP suspected in Baga abduction of five civilians
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Anti-Drug War as NDLEA Officers Graduate from U.S. DEA Academy
VP Shettima Attends High-Level Meeting On Africa’s Health Security Sovereignty
ISWAP suspected in Baga abduction of five civilians
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