The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Imo State Command under the leadership of Commander Ernest Ogbu within the week visited the Imo State chapter of the Association of All Local Government of Nigeria for the purpose of sensitisation and education of what the Agency stands for, all over Nigeria.
Mr Ernest Ogbu in his Introductory Remarks, read out the history of the Agency and her mandate. He also intimated them that Imo State is in its radar as one of the endemic States within the region as far as Trafficking in persons (TIP), Child Abuse/Labour and other forms of exploitation are concerned.
He expressed the need for collective effort as internal trafficking thrives more in rural and vulnerables areas of the communities under their watch as Council Chairmen.
According to the State Commander, the purpose of the visit is to create a synergy with ALGON Imo State bearing in mind of its critical role as the third tier of government as well as their proximity to the grassroots where unsuspecting, vulnerable and poor Nigerians are living.
The Command sought the collaboration of ALGON in the following areas:
(1) To familiarize with the different Local Government Chairmen in Imo State and inform them formally of NAPTIP’s presence in the State as well as the commitment of the State Government towards its establishment .
(2) To seek a formidable partnership with ALGON in the fight against TIP considering their position as representatives of their various communities and closeness with the grassroots.
(3) Liaise with them in the area of mobilization of their people/ community for sensitisation in churches, schools, markets, motor parks and probably during August meeting on the dangers of TIP
(4)To help NAPTIP in the Erection of Bill boards and the production of IEC MATERIALS for the purposes of sensitisation of their various communities,
(5) To provide Vehicle for sensitisation, rescue/reunion of victims to their various communities/homes and for arrest and prosecution of suspects in the court of Law,
Earlier, the Chairman of ALGON Hon. Willy Okoliogwo appreciated NAPTIP for a detailed presentation especially in letting them know what human trafficking entails. On behalf of his team, he promised that they will deliberate on the issues raised and get back to them in due time. He also assured NAPTIP of ALGON’s full support as long as the State Government is aware of its existence in Imo State and are in support of the Agency.
Meanwhile, the chairman of Imo State ALGON Hon. Willy Okoliogwo beseeched NAPTIP to come and sensitize his Local Government as soon as possible.
At the end of the sensitisation, for onward distribution to his team on the dangers of Trafficking in Persons. IEC is instructional, education and communications materials
