Abosede Mary Otukpe is an accomplished professional with a wealth of experience in addressing migration, refugee, and human trafficking issues. Hailing from Nigeria, she has made significant strides in developing assessment and program implementation tools for the reintegration and socioeconomic transformation of migrants, refugees, and returnees. Abosede has expertly scheduled community sensitization programs for returned migrants and provided vital legal protection mechanisms and diversion programs for women and children in conflict with the law. Her efforts have led to the establishment of over 150 referral networks for returnees, ensuring access to essential services and support. In this interview with IFEOMA OKEKE-KORIEOCHA, she speaks on how through her Information Empowerment Against Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking (I-EMPATHY) campaign, she is empowering women and potential migrants with information, raising awareness, and addressing the underlying factors contributing to illegal migration and human trafficking in Nigeria.
With your wealth of experience in addressing migration, refugee, and human trafficking issues, what factors have led to the high level of irregular migration and human trafficking for women and children from Nigeria?
Over the course of my extensive career dedicated to addressing migration, refugee, and human trafficking issues, I’ve observed a complex web of factors contributing to the alarming rates of irregular migration and human trafficking affecting women and children in Nigeria. Economic challenges cast a shadow, pushing individuals to seek better opportunities outside their homeland. The high poverty rates create an environment where vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, feel compelled to explore avenues for a more promising life. Insecurity, both economic and physical, further propels this migration, as individuals seek safety and stability beyond their borders. Limited opportunities within the country amplify the appeal of seeking a brighter future elsewhere. The social pressures, especially impacting young women, add a poignant layer, creating a scenario where the pursuit of a better life becomes synonymous with irregular migration. This intricate tapestry of circumstances is further complicated by a lack of awareness about the inherent risks associated with irregular migration, resulting in individuals making uninformed and perilous decisions.
What are the red flags to look out for when someone is about to be trafficked for illegal purposes by syndicates?
Recognizing potential trafficking situations requires a keen awareness of various red flags. Physical or emotional abuse may manifest itself in visible signs of distress. A victim experiencing restricted freedom of movement, excessive control by a third party, and an inability to communicate freely raises immediate concerns. Isolation, both physically and emotionally, is a prominent indicator of potential trafficking. False promises of employment, confiscation of identification documents, and sudden, drastic changes in behaviour or appearance are additional red flags. By being attuned to these indicators, we can identify and intervene in situations where individuals may be at risk of falling victim to trafficking syndicates for illegal purposes.
Read also: 660 human trafficking victims rescued in 16 yrs in Edo- NAPTIP
From your wealth of experience, what states or places in Nigeria do syndicates mostly use to traffic women and children?
Syndicates engaged in trafficking predominantly exploit major cities such as Edo, Ogun and Lagos State, known for bustling transportation hubs, and border regions with porous borders. The strategic use of these locations facilitates the syndicates’ operations by providing easy access to transportation routes and limited law enforcement presence.
What countries are women and children mostly trafficked to, and for what purposes are they being trafficked?
Women and children from Nigeria are frequently trafficked to European countries, notably Italy and Sweden mostly through Libya. The purposes of trafficking vary but often include forced labour, sexual exploitation, and domestic servitude. The vulnerability of victims is exploited by traffickers for economic gains through these illicit activities.
You’ve scheduled community sensitization programs for returned migrants and provided legal protection mechanisms. How are you able to do this, and how have these programs helped trafficked victims? Share success stories.
Implementing community sensitization programs and legal protection mechanisms for returned migrants is a testament to the commitment and collaboration that underscores our initiatives. These programs are meticulously planned and executed through strategic partnerships with organisations like INGO, Nigerian German Centre for Jobs and Reintegration and International Organisation for Migration IOM returnees associations, government agencies, National Commission for Refugees and Migrants and displaced persons (NCFRMI), National Orientation Agency (NOA), National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons(NAPTIP) and Migrant Resource Centre under Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and community organizations. Community sensitization serves as a platform for creating widespread awareness about the risks associated with irregular migration and human trafficking. Legal protection mechanisms, including counselling, free legal aid, and skill development opportunities, are pivotal in providing holistic support for victims. Success stories abound, showcasing instances where individuals have not only successfully reintegrated into society but have also secured stable employment and achieved financial independence. These stories are a testament to the transformative power of comprehensive support in breaking the cycle of exploitation.
Read also: NAPTIP rescues 65 human trafficking victims in Niger
Your efforts led to the establishment of over 150 referral services for returnees. Where are these networks found, how do they work, and how can people access them?
The establishment of referral networks for returnees is a result of strategic collaboration with various stakeholders. These networks are strategically positioned in locations where returned migrants are likely to seek support. Operating as comprehensive systems, they offer a range of essential services, including medical assistance, counselling, vocational training, and legal aid. Access to these networks is facilitated through proactive outreach programs, community engagement initiatives, and partnerships with local authorities. Individuals in need can access these referral networks through participation in awareness campaigns, contacting relevant local organizations, or reaching out to community leaders.
Could you tell us about your Denny Social Welfare Hub (DSWHUB) Information Empowerment Against Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking (I-EMPATHY) campaign? What do you intend to achieve?
The DSWHUB Information Empowerment Against Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking (I-EMPATHY) campaign is part of The Migrant Project, designed to empower women and potential migrants with information, raise awareness, and address the underlying factors contributing to irregular migration. The overarching goal is to amplify women’s voices in migration decision-making processes and promote safer, more informed choices. Through targeted information dissemination, community engagement, and awareness-raising activities, i-EMPATHY aims to instigate a positive shift in perceptions surrounding migration decisions and empower individuals to make choices that prioritize safety and well-being.
What areas or states are your major focus for this campaign and why?
The campaign strategically concentrates its efforts on areas with a high prevalence of irregular migration and human trafficking, such as Ogun State and Lagos. In recent times, due to the economic status of the country, these states have been identified as critical due to pronounced economic challenges and limited opportunities, rendering residents more susceptible to the pressures and risks associated with irregular migration. By concentrating efforts in these areas, the campaign aims to address the specific challenges faced by vulnerable populations and contribute to sustainable change within communities like Abule Iroko we recently visited.
Read also: NIS arrests top facilitators of human trafficking at Lagos airport
How do you intend to leverage partnerships to achieve impact from this campaign?
The campaign recognizes the pivotal role of partnerships in achieving meaningful impact. Collaborations with government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), local leaders, and women’s rights organizations are fundamental for expanding the campaign’s reach, effectiveness, and community engagement. Through these partnerships, the campaign can tap into diverse resources, access more extensive networks, and benefit from the expertise of various stakeholders. The synergy created through partnerships amplifies the impact of the campaign and fosters a holistic approach to addressing irregular migration and human trafficking.
How have your contributions led to government exchanges and engagements for trafficked and sexually exploited women, and empowered vulnerable individuals with skills, education, and resources?
The contributions made by DSWHUB have facilitated valuable government exchanges and engagements focused on addressing the challenges faced by trafficked and sexually exploited women. By collaborating closely with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international bodies, initiatives have been implemented to provide legal protection, support, and resources for victims. Through skill development and educational programs, vulnerable individuals have been empowered to rebuild their lives, contributing to their personal growth and the overall resilience of the communities affected.
What efforts do you think the government can make to stem the rate at which women and children are being trafficked?
To address the issue effectively, the government can implement a multifaceted approach. Strengthening law enforcement to combat trafficking networks, initiating educational programs to raise awareness, creating economic opportunities in vulnerable regions, and enhancing collaboration with international partners are crucial steps.
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