Germany commends NAPTIP for combating human trafficking, protecting most vulnerable in Nigeria

Binta Adamu Bello, OON, the Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has identified international cooperation, collaboration, and sustained support as a strategic effort capable of yielding tangible, positive, and measurable result in combating incidences of human trafficking across the World.

She stated this in Abuja while delivering a speech at the commencement of a Basic Training Course on International Trafficking in Human beings organized by the German International Police Cooperation as well as the official handing over of the Refurbished NAPTIP Training Resource Centre by the German Embassy in Nigeria.

Binta Adamu Bello described Human Trafficking as a deadly transnational organized criminal enterprise that affects all countries negatively.

“This training is designed to improve the knowledge and skills of NAPTIP officers on investigation, protection, and prosecution of offenders of trafficking in persons and violence against persons in Nigeria.

“NAPTIP sincerely appreciates The German International Police for this bold and commendable initiative which has greatly assisted in enhancing the knowledge and skills of our Officers on trafficking in persons over the years.

“This is an example of how International collaboration can lead to tangible, positive results, and NAPTIP on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, expresses the willingness to continue to work together in addressing the negative impact of human trafficking within the two countries”, the Director General said.

In her remarks, the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Nigeria, Her Excellency, Annett Gunther, said the event was not only the celebration of collaboration and partnership but rather the spirit of shared determination to combat the heinous crimes of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

She said, “As we gather here, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the vital work that NAPTIP undertakes every day. Your dedication to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society and your relentless efforts are commendable. The fight against human trafficking requires unwavering commitment, and I commend each of you for your courage and resilience.

“As we all know, the government of Germany through the German Mission in Nigeria and the German Federal Criminal Police; Bundeskriminalamt (BKA) has remained committed in its support to NAPTIP since the inception of the Agency in various ways.

“Human trafficking is a global challenge that knows no borders. It is a violation of human rights that affects millions of individuals, and it requires a concerted effort from all of us, government, civil society, and international partners.

“The training course which includes practical work, will enable participants to understand the essentials and the methods used in combating international human trafficking. It will also equip them with important investigative skills, thereby increasing their capacity in the handling of complex cases”, the Ambassador stated.

The event was a clear testimony of the synergy and cooperation between the Federal Government of Nigeria through NAPTIP and the Federal Republic of Germany in combating human trafficking.