Benin: The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has initiated a four-day capacity-building workshop aimed at combating human trafficking in Edo and Delta. This workshop, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), is designed for stakeholders including investigators, prosecutors, and enforcement officers from both states.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this event marks the beginning of a training series planned across four locations, targeting eight states in Nigeria, with support from the Government of the Netherlands. The workshop's theme is 'Building an Environment Free of Human Trafficking and Violence Against Persons in Nigeria.' Matthias Esene, the Project Manager of ICMPD's West Africa Office, emphasized the importance of strengthening justice actors' skills and fostering cooperation between federal and state agencies. He highlighted the reality of trafficking and violence in local communities and the need for active and responsive collaborative structures at the local level.
Esene stated that the project will focus on leveraging technology to address emerging trends in human trafficking and violence against persons. He stressed the importance of investing in training, motivation, and collaboration to drive transformation. The workshop, attended by over 40 participants from various sectors, aims to establish a community of practice that will endure beyond the project's three-year duration.
Hajia Binta Bello, Director-General of NAPTIP, highlighted the challenges Nigeria faces with both cross-border and internal trafficking, with Edo being a significant area of concern. Represented by Dr. Ebele Ulasi, NAPTIP's Director of Training and Manpower Development, Bello underscored the evolving nature of trafficking crimes and the necessity for continuous training and collaboration.
Mrs. Roseline Abare, NAPTIP's focal person for the project, outlined the programme's objectives, which include strengthening criminal justice responses using digital tools, enhancing coordination, and operationalizing victim support systems. She also mentioned the recent establishment of NAPTIP's Cybercrime Response Team (CRT) and a Joint Case Team for cybercrime investigations.