Combating human trafficking: NIDO Africa reserves December 20 for grassroots mobilization in Nigeria

The Nigerians In Diaspora Organization (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. We also work closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to amplify our message and expand our reach. This campaign will not be limited to Abuja but will resonate far and wide.”

The latest initiative titled ‘Save Our Children Campaign’, which aims to raise awareness and mobilize various stakeholders to curb these inhumane practices, follows numerous successes that have seen the rescue of over half a million Nigerians from various African countries .

“This heinous crime, which manifests itself in despicable forms such as forced labor, sexual exploitation and even organ trafficking, robs too many of our youth of their future. It is our collective duty to fight this evil, raise awareness and protect the most vulnerable from its devastating effects.

“The NIDO Africa Save Our Children Campaign, a landmark event, will 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.”

Speaking to journalists at a press conference in Abuja, the Chairman of NIDO Africa, Professor Jude Osakwe, emphasized the organization’s continued commitment to eradicating human trafficking and its associated social ills.

“Too many parents, unaware of the sinister motives of human traffickers, are misled into believing that their children will get jobs abroad. Instead, these children are forced into a life of slavery and prostitution, their innocence shattered. This has to stop, and we have to be the ones to stop it.

He specifically noted that more children have been rescued and key actors arrested in Ghana, crediting this achievement to the joint efforts of the 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 closely with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) to organize this event. Relevant ministries, Interpol, police and other authorities have been informed. Our unity with different stakeholders amplifies the power of our message, and together we will send a strong message 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 enjoy the respect and trust of our people. By initiating crucial conversations with parents, we will help them understand the risks associated with 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 a tool that we want to use with precision. School principals and teachers have the ability to embrace and implement awareness initiatives within their institutions. By informing both students and parents, they play an indispensable role in dismantling the roots of human trafficking. Schools are places of growth and safety; they must also be fortresses where the chains of human trafficking are broken.

“I must also highlight our partnership with the road transport unions – a crucial ally in this fight. By working closely with transport employees, we want to increase awareness among their members. They will be trained to be vigilant watchdogs, able to recognize and report suspicious activities that may indicate human trafficking. This vigilance at the community level will increase 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 significantly enhance Nigeria’s international reputation. By showing a united stand against this crime, we are showing the world that Nigeria is a nation that values ​​human dignity, freedom and justice. Our success will lead to greater trust and admiration from the global community.

“I am also very grateful for the support of Nollywood actors who have joined us in this fight. Their involvement, through short video clips and powerful messages, will give our cause extra strength. We are honored that they can lend their voices to this noble mission,” Osakwe emphasized.