NACTAL Inaugurates Kogi Interim State Executives, Advocates for Heightened Anti-Trafficking Efforts
The Network Against Trafficking, Abuse, and Labour (NACTAL) has inaugurated its interim state executives in Kogi State, setting the stage for a renewed fight against human trafficking in the region.
The event, held in Lokoja, highlighted the state’s critical role as a source, transit, and destination for trafficking, with the National President, Abdulganiu Abubakar, underscoring the urgent need for government intervention and strategic partnerships.
Speaking at the inauguration, Abubakar described Kogi as a “gateway state,” pivotal in the national and regional fight against human trafficking.
“Kogi State is heavily affected, serving as a source, transit, and destination for trafficked persons. Young men and women from the state are trafficked across West Africa and beyond,” he stated
emphasizing the importance of prevention, prosecution, and partnership in addressing this scourge.
He further called on the Kogi State Government, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, to collaborate with development partners, particularly the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), which currently lacks a presence in the state.
The newly inaugurated interim state coordinator, Mrs. Rachael Akande, expressed her commitment to spearheading grassroots efforts to combat human trafficking.
“Our team will prioritize awareness creation, collaboration with stakeholders, and advocacy for better structures to protect our people,” she said, calling for support from both government and non-governmental entities.
The interim executives are; State Coordinator, Akande Rachael Remilekun, Secretary, Barr. Lillian Ajuma Okolo and Assistant State Coordinator, Titus Alonge.
Similarly, as part of the inauguration activities, the NACTAL delegation, led by its national body from Abuja, paid a courtesy visit to the Kogi State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Fatimah Momoh.
During the visit, Abubakar highlighted opportunities for the state to benefit from international development programs, including the European Union’s migration governance initiatives aimed at youth empowerment and reducing trafficking.
The delegation also shared their success in facilitating the return and reintegration of trafficked persons, many of whom were Kogi indigenes found in neighboring African countries.
Abubakar revealed that the European Union’s coalition, through its partnership with the Nigerian government, has introduced youth and empowerment programs designed to curb trafficking.
“Our project officer in Abuja is engaging development partners to ensure Kogi State benefits from these initiatives,” he added, encouraging state authorities to actively seek these opportunities.
In her response, Hajia Momoh commended NACTAL for their efforts and pledged the ministry’s collaboration to address trafficking. “We will work together to establish safe spaces for vulnerable individuals and support initiatives that protect our people,” she assured, emphasizing the ministry’s openness to fostering partnerships with NACTAL and other relevant agencies.
