DEVATOP Strengthens Anti-Trafficking Response Through Capacity Building Workshop
From May 20 to 22, 2026, DEVATOP Centre for Africa Development participated in a three-day capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s response to human trafficking and irregular migration. The workshop, organized by FIAPP, was held at Reiz Continental Hotel in the Central Business District, Abuja, bringing together key stakeholders working to combat trafficking and improve protection systems for vulnerable populations.
Representing DEVATOP at the workshop were Alheri, Case Manager, and Olukayode Israel, ICT Assistant, who joined participants in engaging discussions and practical sessions focused on enhancing institutional responses to trafficking and migration-related crimes.
The workshop convened officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Anti-Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration Unit (AHTIMU), alongside representatives from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Nigerian Immigration Service, and civil society organizations, including NACTAL. Over the course of three days, participants explored critical themes such as the legal frameworks guiding human trafficking and migrant smuggling, trauma-informed approaches to survivor care, safe interception protocols, inter-agency collaboration, and evidence gathering for effective case management and prosecution.
A major highlight of the workshop was DEVATOP’s technical session on the TALKAM App, which took place on the final day. More than a standard presentation, the session provided participants with an interactive and hands-on experience of the technology. Officers installed the application on their phones and laptops, tested its features, and participated in live mock reporting exercises simulating real trafficking cases. This practical engagement enabled participants to better understand the app’s role in reporting, documentation, and case response, while demonstrating its relevance to field operations.
The atmosphere during the session reflected strong enthusiasm and engagement, as officers quickly recognized the practical value of the TALKAM App in supporting their anti-trafficking efforts. The live demonstrations fostered meaningful discussions around digital innovation, reporting efficiency, and coordinated responses to trafficking incidents.
The workshop concluded on a promising note, with leadership from the NSCDC expressing interest in strengthening collaboration with DEVATOP through a formalized partnership. They also indicated openness to future trainings and continued capacity-building initiatives. At the close of the workshop, certificates of participation were issued to all attendees by FIIAPP, marking the successful completion of the intensive training program.
DEVATOP remains committed to leveraging technology, partnerships, and capacity-building efforts to strengthen systems that protect vulnerable individuals and advance Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking and irregular migration.
