Authorities from Nigeria and the Netherlands are conducting an on-site review of anti-human trafficking initiatives under the TIPVAP–NG programme, aimed at strengthening investigative and victim support capacities.
The assessment is part of the multi-stakeholder programme “Building an Environment Free of Human Trafficking and Violence Against Persons in Nigeria (TIPVAP–NG)”, implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy and Development (ICMPD). The project seeks to improve Nigeria’s ability to prevent trafficking, support victims, and enhance prosecution of offenders.
At the opening of the second Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting in Abuja, NAPTIP Director General, Binta Bello, highlighted progress achieved since the programme’s launch in February 2025. She noted that key components of the project include the operationalization of the Cybercrime Response Team (CRT), implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), development of victim referral mechanisms, and sustained public awareness campaigns in focal states such as Benue, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Ogun, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“The TIPVAP–NG programme’s main goal is to strengthen Nigeria’s resilience against trafficking in persons and related violence,” Bello said. “Significant steps have been taken, and the PSC continues to provide strategic oversight, ensuring alignment with national priorities and international best practices”.
She stressed the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to address emerging trends in trafficking and related crimes. “We must work together to prevent human trafficking in Nigeria and beyond,”]]”, she added.
Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Asylum and Migration of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Victor Cramer, highlighted that Nigerian trafficking victims continue to be overrepresented among cases identified in Europe. “Many face sexual exploitation and forced criminality. By strengthening capacity-building efforts, we can reduce risks for those taking dangerous migration routes while supporting our joint fight against human trafficking”, he said.
Head of ICMPD’s Nigeria office, Isabelle Wolsgruber, emphasized the need for awareness campaigns to educate communities about the risks of irregular migration and human trafficking.
