Niger State Strengthens Commitment to Combat Human Trafficking
By Abdulkadir Yahaya, Minna.
The Niger State Government has taken a significant step in the fight against human trafficking and gender-based violence by providing land and a Certificate of Occupancy to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for the establishment of a State Command.
Governor Umaru Bago announced this initiative during a courtesy visit from NAPTIP’s management, led by Director General Binta Adamu Bello, at the Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.
In addition to the land donation, Governor Bago has committed N50 million as a matching fund for the command’s establishment and has offered temporary accommodation for agency staff until the office project is finalized. Emphasizing the urgent need to tackle gender-based violence and child trafficking, he reiterated his administration’s dedication to partnering with NAPTIP to address these pressing issues, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where out-of-school children and domestic violence remain prevalent.
Binta Adamu Bello underscored the importance of this collaboration, noting that NAPTIP plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and dignity of vulnerable individuals, especially women and children.
She expressed gratitude for the Governor’s support, highlighting the agency’s commitment to working alongside state and local communities to protect victims and prosecute offenders.