Niger State Commander of NAPTIP Calls for Media Support in Combating Human Trafficking
By Yahaya Zakka Minna
Mr. Emmanuel Awhen, the State Commander for the Niger State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), emphasized the crucial role of the media in the fight against human trafficking.
During a recent courtesy visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Niger State Council, he met with the Chairman, Comrade Abu Modu, at the NUJ State Council Secretariat in Minna. There, he highlighted the heinous nature of human trafficking, describing it as a modern-day atrocity that requires collective action.
Mr. Awhen pointed out that Niger State’s geographical location makes it a key transit point for human trafficking, rendering it one of the most affected states in the country.
He expressed the need for collaboration and urged journalists to help spread awareness about these pressing issues, especially in remote areas where the Agency’s presence is limited.
“The media is one of our key stakeholders in this fight, and we appreciate your support,” Mr. Awhen stated. He noted that human trafficking extends beyond sexual and labor exploitation, citing examples such as employing a household worker without providing direct compensation, which also constitutes a form of trafficking.
He appealed to journalists to amplify the message against this crime, stressing the importance of educating communities about the dangers and implications of human trafficking.
Through media collaboration, the agency hopes to enhance its efforts in safeguarding vulnerable populations across Niger State.
In his remarks, Comrade Abu Modu, represented by Vice Chairman Comrade Uria Gana, expressed the NUJ’s commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship aimed at improving workflow and effectiveness.
Comrade Gana assured the officials of the journalists’ in the state full cooperation, emphasizing that this partnership is vital for the Command’s success.
He urged them to maintain open communication with the NUJ, especially regarding any upcoming activities.
He highlighted the significance of training programs for journalists in the state, encouraging the organization of sessions that would familiarize them with the Command’s operations and best practices. This initiative would equip journalists to meet the evolving demands of the Command’s aims and objectives.
He also noted that this positive step would strengthen media collaboration with the Niger State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, paving the way for enhanced journalistic standards in reporting their activities.
