Stakeholders in Anambra State have identified the state as a major transit route for human trafficking, illegal migration, child labour and exploitation, calling for stronger collaboration to tackle the growing menace.
The concerns were raised during the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and Illegal Migration, commemorated in Awka under the theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam.”
The event was organised by the Anambra State Government in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, International Federation of Women Lawyers, the Network Against Trafficking of Persons, Child Abuse and Labour, the CSO Migration and Development Network, Zaram Life Foundation and other civil society organisations.
Participants marched through major streets in Awka carrying placards with messages against human trafficking, child labour, child abuse and illegal migration, while urging residents to remain vigilant against fraudulent job and travel offers.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs, Esther Onyekesi, attributed the state’s strategic location and thriving commercial activities to its vulnerability as a transit point for traffickers.
She warned residents, particularly young people, against falling victim to false promises of employment, education and better opportunities abroad, urging them to verify travel and job offers before taking any decision.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Anambra State Ministry of Justice, Nkiru Mokwe, called on members of the public to report suspected cases of human trafficking and travel scams, stressing the importance of breaking the culture of silence.
The Co-Convener of the programme, Eucharia Onyemaobi, advocated increased awareness campaigns in rural communities to educate parents and youths on the dangers of trafficking and illegal migration.
Similarly, the Chairperson of FIDA in Anambra State, Amara Muojeke, warned that offences relating to human trafficking, child labour and illegal migration attract severe penalties under Nigerian law, including imprisonment.
Representatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Nigeria Immigration Service also urged commercial transport operators and members of the public to report suspicious movements involving children and vulnerable persons.
The Head of Anti-Smuggling and Migration of the Nigeria Immigration Service in Anambra State, Theophilus Muozoba, cautioned intending travellers against irregular migration, warning of the risks of human trafficking, exploitation and organ harvesting in some foreign destinations.
Stakeholders at the event called for sustained collaboration among government agencies, schools, religious institutions, traditional rulers, civil society organisations and the media to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable members of society.
