ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT LEADS CHARGE AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING, INAUGURATES STATE TASK FORCE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NAPTIP

The Abia State Government, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has officially inaugurated the Abia State Task Force on Human Trafficking in a bold and strategic move to combat the growing menace and protect vulnerable citizens. The event was held yesterday at the Micheal Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.

Representing the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, described the inauguration as a decisive step toward strengthening the State’s resolve to eliminate human trafficking and uphold human dignity.

“This moment is not merely ceremonial; it is strategic, purposeful, and urgent. The establishment of this Task Force marks a decisive step in strengthening our collective resolve to prevent, combat, and ultimately eradicate the scourge of human trafficking within our dear State,” he stated.

The Deputy Governor underscored the multi-dimensional impact of human trafficking, describing it as a grave violation of fundamental human rights and a threat to economic stability, security, and social cohesion. He noted that trafficking deprives society of productive citizens, fuels illicit economies, and undermines sustainable development.

From a security perspective, he emphasized that trafficking networks are often linked to organized crime, including drug trafficking and transnational criminal syndicates, stressing that confronting the menace will further strengthen the State’s internal security architecture.

On the social front, Engr. Emetu lamented the devastating effects of trafficking on families and communities, noting that victims often suffer long-term emotional and psychological trauma. He called for a holistic approach that combines enforcement with rehabilitation and reintegration.

Addressing the moral imperative, the Deputy Governor urged stakeholders to rise to the responsibility of defending the vulnerable, emphasizing that justice, compassion, and human dignity must remain central to governance.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, to providing the necessary institutional, policy, and moral support to ensure the success of the Task Force, while calling for robust collaboration among government agencies, security institutions, civil society organizations, and community leaders.

“I hereby formally inaugurate the Abia State Task Force on Human Trafficking and charge you to serve with excellence and purpose,” he declared.

In her speech, the Director-General of NAPTIP, Mrs. Binta Adamu Bello, noted that the inauguration makes Abia the 25th state in Nigeria to establish a NAPTIP-supported task force. She described human trafficking as a growing global menace and reiterated the agency’s role in coordinating prevention efforts and prosecuting offenders in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Mrs. Bello highlighted key operational challenges facing the agency, including inadequate vehicles, limited office space, and insufficient facilities for sheltering rescued victims—conditions she warned could heighten the risk of re-trafficking. She, however, commended the Abia State Government for its proactive and people-oriented policies and called for sustained partnership.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Task Force and Attorney General of Abia State, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwana, SAN, expressed optimism that the initiative would prevent the State from becoming a haven for traffickers. He assured that all necessary legal instruments would be fully deployed to ensure the Task Force operates effectively and delivers on its mandate.

In a vote of thanks, the Honourable Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Hon. Mrs. Blessing Ngozi Felix, expressed gratitude to Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the protection of vulnerable groups. She also acknowledged the advocacy and support of the First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, particularly in championing the welfare of women and children.

The Commissioner further appreciated development partners, including NAPTIP and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), for their collaboration and continued support.

The event was attended by the First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti; members of the State Executive Council; Council Mayors; top government functionaries; and representatives from various MDAs, among others.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
April 17, 2026.