The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has identified Oyo State as a major source, transit and destination point for human trafficking, warning residents to be wary of fraudulent job offers, scholarships and travel opportunities, particularly those advertised on social media.
The Oyo State Commander of NAPTIP, Kayode Alfred, disclosed this during the Stronger Futures Dialogue organised by the University of Amsterdam in collaboration with the Oyo State Government at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan.
Alfred said Oyo State’s strategic location and shared international border with the Republic of Benin have made it particularly vulnerable to trafficking activities.
“Oyo State is a source, transit and destination state for human trafficking. People are trafficked from Oyo State to other states and countries, while others are brought into the state for exploitation. Because Oyo State shares an international border with the Republic of Benin, it remains particularly vulnerable to trafficking activities,” he said.
The NAPTIP commander explained that the agency is tackling human trafficking through its “5Ps Strategy”—Policy, Prevention, Prosecution, Protection and Partnership—which focuses on public awareness, law enforcement, victim rehabilitation and collaboration with key stakeholders.
He commended the Oyo State Government for its sustained support, noting that NAPTIP works closely with the state Ministries of Women Affairs and Justice to rehabilitate victims and ensure the prosecution of offenders.
Alfred also highlighted the role of the Oyo State Task Force on Human Trafficking, established in 2020, in strengthening the fight against the crime through intelligence sharing, joint operations, regular meetings and capacity-building programmes involving security agencies and civil society organisations.
He warned that traffickers often lure victims with false promises of employment, scholarships and better living conditions, urging Nigerians not to allow desperation to expose them to exploitation.
“You do not have to leave Nigeria before you can succeed. Many people become victims because of poverty, unemployment or the desire for a better life. Desperation often makes them vulnerable to traffickers,” he said.
Alfred further cautioned residents to exercise caution when engaging with strangers online, noting that traffickers increasingly exploit social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to advertise fake opportunities.
He advised Nigerians to reject any offer that requires secrecy from parents, relatives or trusted friends.
“Be wary of anyone who tells you to keep an offer secret from your parents, family or friends. Genuine opportunities do not require secrecy,” he said.
The NAPTIP commander expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government for its continued partnership and expressed optimism that stronger collaboration would further enhance efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable persons across the state.