NAPTIP Flags Off Nationwide Data Training Against Human Trafficking

The Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Mrs. Binta Bello, has launched a nationwide training for data collection officers as part of the agency’s efforts to implement Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Human Trafficking (2022–2026).

Speaking at the opening of the training on Tuesday in Enugu, Bello, represented by the South-East Zonal Commander of the agency, Mr. Jonathan Ukpai said that the workshop marks a significant point in the country’s shift towards data-driven responses in tackling human trafficking.

The move was a response to an internal review of its data collection tools in 2024, which cited the importance of disability indicators, to improve inclusivity and accuracy in reporting.

According to her, experts’ suggestions led to the development of a comprehensive national database and a dynamic data dashboard to support evidence-based interventions.

“These revised instruments were further refined in collaboration with a consultant to align them with the project’s framework, culminating in the creation of a comprehensive national database and a dynamic data dashboard.

“The reviewed tools were pilot-tested during a training of trainers held in Abuja from July 1 to July 5.

“This workshop serves to cascade the knowledge to frontline officers across NAPTIP offices, State Task Forces, and partner civil society organisations (CSOs).”

Bello acknowledged the support of the Swiss Government and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), describing their collaboration as instrumental in advancing Nigeria’s anti-trafficking efforts.

Delivering a goodwill message, the Enugu State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, praised NAPTIP’s sustained efforts in the fight against human trafficking.

He assured the agency of the state government’s continued support to ease the operational challenges facing its personnel.

Also, the NAPTIP’s Director of Research and Programme Development, Mr. Josiah Emerole, described accurate data as essential in combating trafficking and improving accountability.

Represented by his deputy director, Mr. Rasheed Olatunji, Emerole said the training aims to strengthen data collection and harmonised reporting across national and sub-national levels.

UNODC Country Representative, Mr. Cheikh Toure, in his remarks, commended the commitment of frontline stakeholders across Nigeria’s anti-trafficking landscape.

He disclosed that the next major step would be the unveiling of the National Action Plan Reporting Dashboard on July 30, in commemoration of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

Toure said the harmonised tools incorporate gender-responsive and disability-inclusive principles.

He further acknowledged the Enugu State Government’s support of the NAPTIP State Task Force, describing sub-national partnerships as essential to ensuring long-term success in combating trafficking in persons.

NAPTIP Flags Off Nationwide Data Training Against Human Trafficking is first published on The Whistler Newspaper