The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has commenced a three-day workshop for lecturers in Colleges of Education in Edo and Ogun states on anti-human trafficking.
The workshop, being done in collaboration with National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking In Persons (NAPTIP) in Benin, is to strengthen the fight against human trafficking through education.
In his opening address, Adeniyi Bakre, Project Officer, ICMPD, West Africa, described the workshop as Training of Trainers, under the School Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP).
The programmme is funded by the Government of the Netherlands.
“The issue of trafficking in persons is one that affects millions of individuals worldwide, with devastating consequences on individuals, families, and entire communities.
“As educators and teacher-trainers, you are in a unique and powerful position to combat this injustice by equipping others with the knowledge, skills, and awareness necessary to identify and respond to trafficking situations.
“In doing so, you play a critical role not just in protecting individuals, but in fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and human rights.
“This training today is not just about knowledge – it’s about action.
“It’s about understanding the complexities of trafficking in persons, recognising the signs of exploitation, and knowing how to create safe and supportive environments for victims and at-risk individuals.
“As teacher-trainers, you are entrusted with the task of imparting this vital information to a wider network of educators, who in turn will be empowered to support students, parents, and communities,” he said.
Bakre urged the participants to approach the training with open mind and collaborative spirit, adding that the knowledge would not only enhance their role as educators, but make a lasting difference in the fight against trafficking in persons.
Dr Sodeinde, Head of Region, ICMPD West Africa, said the initiative covered institutions across Benue, Delta, Edo, Enugu and Ogun states, empowering educators to identify and address trafficking risks affecting school-age children and young adults.
“Human trafficking remains a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with West Africa experiencing alarmingly high rates of trafficking among minors.
“To counter this, the STEAP project, funded by the Government of the Netherlands, collaborates with the Government of Nigeria, through the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and the State Ministry of Education.
“Together, these partners are integrating anti-trafficking education into the school curriculum to create a safer environment for vulnerable youth and raise awareness across school communities, Sodeinde, who was represented by Rhoda Dia-Johnson said.
Prof. Paulinus Chijioke Okwelle, Executive Secretary, National Commission for Colleges of Education, reiterated the commission’s dedication to integrating anti-trafficking concepts into the NCE curriculum.
According to him, the initiative aims to empower teacher trainees to advocate, protect, and enlighten students on the dangers of human trafficking.