……EDSDA speaks against Human Trafficking, urges the public to avoid illegal migration
By Tracy Ohovwore
The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the pervasive and insidious crime of human trafficking.
According to the 2024 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Child trafficking, trafficking for forced labour and forced criminality are rising as poverty, conflict and climate leave more people vulnerable to exploitation.
The dangers of human trafficking are far-reaching and devastating, with victims suffering physical and psychological trauma, loss of freedom, and erosion of human dignity.
To commemorate the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Family Empowerment for Change, Growth, and Social Development (FECGSD) has launched a compelling awareness campaign titled “Japa with Sense”, designed to promote safe, informed, and legal migration practices among young Nigerians.
The initiative addresses a growing concern: the increasing number of young people leaving the country through irregular and unsafe routes, often falling victim to human trafficking and exploitation.
The campaign seeks to shift the narrative, acknowledging that while the desire to seek better opportunities abroad is valid, the process must be guided by accurate information and legal pathways.
As part of the campaign’s rollout, Family Empowerment for Change, Growth and Social Development (FECGSD), engaged in an in-depth interview with the Director General of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, Dr Loretta Ogboro-Okor, who provided context and clarity on the harsh realities of human trafficking in Nigeria.
“Many people are desperate to leave, unaware that they are walking into the hands of traffickers,” she said. “Human trafficking is not the same as smuggling. Trafficking thrives on deceit, manipulation, and control and it preys on people’s vulnerability.”
She explained that the root causes; poverty, societal pressure, and lack of viable opportunities drive even skilled individuals into the hands of traffickers.
“This is a societal cankerworm. We need a united front, including local and global partnerships, economic investments, and honest conversations.”
She also commended the Sen. Monday Okpebholo-led Edo State Government for its giant strides in development, citing projects such as the new flyover, the revamped Edo Line and infrastructure investments as not just physical upgrades, but critical steps toward economic empowerment and migration deterrence.
“These efforts are creating jobs and restoring hope,” she noted. “They represent a government that is working to close the gap that trafficking networks exploit.”
On what potential migrants should do, the DG emphasized the importance of proper documentation and relying on credible organizations like IOM, NAPTIP, the Edo State Migration Agency and the Diaspora Agency, which offer free information, consultations, and guidance.
“Migration must be intentional. Ask questions. Get facts. Register with the Nigerian Embassy if you’re already abroad. You have options but only if you stay informed.”
The State Lead of FECGSD, Ms. P. Osayande, added her voice to the campaign’s message: “At Family for Change, we understand the strong desire among many young Nigerians to seek better opportunities abroad. However, we cannot overemphasize the importance of doing so wisely and legally. The Japa with Sense campaign is our call to action, encouraging individuals, especially youth, to pause, plan, and protect themselves by seeking the right information before making any move.
“Irregular migration often begins with misinformation and ends in exploitation, trafficking, or even tragedy. We urge everyone considering migration to engage credible sources like government agencies, embassies, legal migration experts, and reputable civil society organizations like ours for guidance and support. There is no shame in wanting more; but it must be pursued with knowledge, caution, and a clear plan.
Migration is a right, but migrating with sense is the only way to ensure safety, dignity, and a real chance at success.”
FECGSD encourages all stakeholders, youth, parents, educators, and community leaders to join in amplifying the message: “Japa with Sense”; don’t just migrate, migrate informed.
