By Milcah Tanimu

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has highlighted a troubling trend in Oyo State, revealing that parents are significantly involved in the human trafficking crisis. Mr. Augustine Akanya, Head of NAPTIP’s Oyo State Office, made this statement during a town hall meeting organized by the Adinya Arise Foundation (AAF) in Ibadan on Wednesday.

Akanya reported that in nearly 80 percent of human trafficking cases addressed in the state, parents—especially mothers—played a crucial role. He detailed cases where mothers sent their children to countries like Libya without the father’s knowledge. Akanya emphasized the need for greater parental involvement in preventing such crimes, stressing that parents often assist in acquiring loans or other resources that facilitate trafficking.

The meeting also addressed broader concerns about trafficking networks and the lack of Nigerian representation in countries such as Oman. Akanya urged stakeholders and parents to be proactive in preventing trafficking, advocating for safe and legal travel with proper documentation.

The Adinya Arise Foundation, in partnership with the USAID Palladium Counter Trafficking in Persons (CTIP) project, has been actively working to combat human trafficking in Oyo State. The initiative, which has also been implemented in Benue and Taraba states, focuses on raising awareness, supporting victims, and disrupting trafficking networks.

Ade, a representative from AAF, underscored the devastating effects of human trafficking on individuals and communities, calling for stronger laws and increased vigilance from security operatives to address and eliminate this pressing issue.