The Ondo State Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Mr. Waheed Adegboyega Taiwo, has emphasized the agency’s commitment to providing Nigerians with adequate information about the dangers and illegality of human trafficking.
He made this known during a courtesy visit to the NYSC Ondo State Coordinator at her office in the Federal Secretariat Complex, Igbatoro Road, Akure.
Taiwo highlighted that NAPTIP, established in 2003 and later strengthened by a revised Act in 2005, is dedicated to adopting effective measures to combat human trafficking and related offenses.
He explained that the agency operates based on the 5Ps—Policy, Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership—as a strategic approach to tackling the menace.
The visit, according to Taiwo, aimed at fostering collaboration with NYSC to educate corps members about the dangers of human trafficking.
He proposed that NAPTIP be granted a platform during the NYSC orientation programs to sensitize corps members, who would then take the advocacy to public spaces, religious centers, and other stakeholders.
Expressing his commitment to making the collaboration effective, Taiwo acknowledged the NYSC as an influential institution that commands nationwide respect.
In response, the NYSC Ondo State Coordinator, Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi Bakare, welcomed the partnership, describing it as long overdue.
She assured that the Scheme remains open to collaborations with reputable organizations that align with its objectives.
"NYSC has always been a strong platform for grooming young graduates into responsible and compassionate future leaders. Your visit is timely, and I assure you of our support in achieving this shared goal," Bakare stated.
She urged NAPTIP to facilitate official approval for the partnership from its national headquarters and assured that her administration would invest in initiatives that promote youth development.
Bakare further called on NAPTIP to intensify efforts in raising awareness, noting that many Nigerian youths fall victim to trafficking under the guise of seeking better opportunities abroad.
She assured that NYSC field officers would be mobilized to support the cause and reinforce efforts in combating human trafficking.
The NAPTIP State Commander was accompanied by key officials, including Mr. Francis Ariyo (Assistant Director/Head of Intelligence), Mrs. Funmi Agbejoye (Head of Public Enlightenment), and Mrs. Racheal Ijanusi (Head of Counselling and Rehabilitation).
