By Prince Woke
As part of activities to mark the 2025 International Day Against Trafficking in Persons, a collaborative road walk was held on Wednesday 30th July 2025, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The walk brought together key stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, civil society groups, NGOs, and members of the public in a united front against human trafficking.
This year’s global theme: “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime. End the exploitation”, emphasizes the importance of amplifying the voices of survivors, creating avenues for economic empowerment, and promoting preventive education, especially among vulnerable populations.
Stakeholders present at the walk included representatives from: NAPTIP (National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons), FIDA Rivers (International Federation of Women Lawyers), Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Navy, EFCC, ICPC, Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Women Affairs, Civil Society Organizations and Faith-based groups.
In their remarks, various representatives reiterated the urgent need for collective action to combat human trafficking in Nigeria, particularly within Rivers State, which remains both a source and transit hub for trafficking activities. Speakers also stressed the importance of community awareness, early education, poverty alleviation, and strengthened institutional collaboration.
The road walk was a demonstration of solidarity and shared responsibility.
The Assistant Publicity Secretary of FIDA,Rivers Sotonye Kelechi-Nwuzi said it not only raised awareness but also strengthened inter-agency cooperation in the fight against human trafficking in Nigeria.
