Fighting Human Trafficking: NIDO Africa Earmarks Dec. 20 For Grassroots Mobilization In Nigeria
The Nigerians In Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Africa has set aside December 20 this year as the launch of a robust campaign to combat the pressing issues of human trafficking and illegal migration.
“We are determined to make this campaign visible across the length and breadth of our country. Billboards will be strategically placed in key locations to ensure our message reaches all corners of society. Additionally, we are working closely with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to amplify our message and extend our reach. This campaign will not be confined to Abuja—it will resonate far and wide.”
The latest initiative tagged ‘Save Our Children Campaign’which aims to raise awareness and mobilize various stakeholders to curb these inhumane practices, comes on the heels of numerous successes which have seen over half a million Nigerians rescued from across various African countries.
“This heinous crime, which manifests in despicable forms such as forced labour, sexual exploitation, and even organ trafficking, is robbing too many of our young ones of their futures. It is our collective duty to fight this evil, to raise awareness, and to protect those most vulnerable from its devastating reach.
“The NIDO Africa Save Our Children Campaign, a landmark event, is scheduled to take place in Abuja on December 20, 2024. This campaign is not just another event on our calendar; it is a beacon of hope and a call to action.”
Addressing Journalists during a Press Conference in Abuja, the Chairman of NIDO Africa, Professor Jude Osakwe, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment in stamping out human trafficking and its associated societal ills.
“Too many parents, unaware of the sinister motives of traffickers, are tricked into believing that their children will be given job opportunities abroad. Instead, these children are forced into a life of slavery and prostitution, their innocence shattered. This must stop, and we must be the ones to stop it.
He specifically noted that more children have been rescued in Ghana, and the kingpins arrested, crediting this achievement to the concerted efforts of NIDO Ghana Chapter and the swift response of the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Hon. Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
“NIDO Africa is working in close collaboration with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) to host this event. Relevant Ministries, the Interpol, Police and other agencies have been notified. Our unity with various stakeholders amplifies the strength of our message, and together, we will send a powerful signal to the traffickers: Your time is up.
“But our efforts do not stop here. This campaign aims to engage influential figures within our communities—religious and traditional leaders—who hold the respect and trust of our people. By initiating crucial conversations with parents, we will help them understand the risks of releasing their children into vulnerable situations. Together, we will shine a light on this dark crime and protect our youth.
“Education is a powerful tool, and it is one we intend to wield with precision. School heads and educators have the ability to embrace and implement awareness initiatives within their institutions. By enlightening students and parents alike, they play an indispensable role in dismantling the very roots of human trafficking. Schools are places of growth and safety; they must also be fortresses where the chains of trafficking are broken.
“I must also emphasize our partnership with the road transport unions—a crucial ally in this fight. By working closely with transport workers, we aim to raise awareness among their members. They will be educated to become vigilant watchdogs, able to recognize and report any suspicious activities that could indicate trafficking. This community-level vigilance will bolster the reach and effectiveness of our campaign.
“While our primary goal is the eradication of human trafficking, we must also recognize that our efforts have the potential to greatly improve Nigeria’s international reputation. By demonstrating a unified stand against this crime, we are showing the world that Nigeria is a nation that values human dignity, freedom, and justice. Our success will foster greater trust and admiration from the global community.
“I am also deeply grateful for the support of Nollywood actors who have joined us in this fight. Their involvement, through short video clips and powerful messages, will bring additional weight to our cause. We are honoured to have them lend their voices to this noble mission,” Osakwe urged.
