The Lagos State Government has renewed its commitment to fighting human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and the rising japa migration trend through stronger collaboration with federal agencies and international partners. This focus was highlighted during a sensitisation programme held in Lagos with the theme, “Partnership for Protection: Safeguarding Public Servants Against Trafficking and Unsafe Migration.”
The programme was organised by the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, and attended by representatives from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the National Orientation Agency (NOA). The event focused on educating public servants about the dangers of irregular migration and the deceptive recruitment strategies often used by traffickers, including those shared online.
During his speech, Commissioner Olugbenga Oyerinde described human trafficking as a modern form of slavery that exploits vulnerable people. He noted that the japa mindset — the belief that success only exists abroad — has pushed many Nigerians into unsafe journeys that lead to exploitation and hardship. He stressed that while migration is not bad, it must be done legally and safely.
Why are so many young people trying to leave Nigeria?
Many believe better opportunities only exist abroad.
What is the government saying?
Success can also be achieved locally with skills, support, and proper planning.
Oyerinde explained that Lagos, through the Task Force Against Human Trafficking, has worked closely with NAPTIP and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to strengthen awareness campaigns and support legal actions against traffickers. He thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring continuous support for citizen welfare and safe migration practices.
In a separate conversation after his speech, the Commissioner confirmed that the collaboration between the state and federal government has helped rescue and return many Nigerians from dangerous situations abroad, including conflict zones. He urged citizens to avoid traveling without clear plans or legitimate opportunities.
Also speaking at the event, Dr Rauf Age-Sulaiman, Chairman of the House Committee on Special Relations, emphasized the need to dismantle human trafficking networks, noting that young people are the most targeted because of their desire to seek opportunities. He said the government is working on creating empowerment programmes that will make irregular migration less appealing.
In her goodwill message, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and CEO of NiDCOM, called for stronger coordination between states and the federal government to address the root causes of unsafe migration. She highlighted the need for modern technology and data systems to identify and disrupt trafficking operations more effectively.
The event closed with a shared commitment from all agencies to increase advocacy, provide community support, and ensure that migration — when pursued — is done legally, safely, and responsibly.