DEVATOP, Freedom Fund and 3HF Engage NAPTIP Lagos Command on Strengthening Child Protection Efforts
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration in the fight against child exploitation and human trafficking, representatives of DEVATOP Centre for Africa Development, Freedom Fund, and 3HF paid an advocacy visit to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Lagos Command.
During the visit, the Lagos State Commander of NAPTIP, Mrs. Comfort Agboko, provided an overview of the agency’s mandate, highlighting its responsibilities in the arrest, investigation, and prosecution of trafficking-related offences across 26 states in Nigeria. She identified Edo and Kebbi States as major hotspots for human trafficking and child labour, noting that increasing conflict, poverty, and economic hardship continue to drive the vulnerability of children and families.
Mrs. Agboko appealed for increased collaboration and support from Freedom Fund and its partners in addressing trafficking and child labour challenges. She emphasized the need for resources to support victim shelter services, strengthen anti-trafficking interventions, and facilitate activities commemorating the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
The Commander also raised concerns about the title of the ongoing project, “Protect Child Domestic Workers from Maltreatment,” suggesting that it could unintentionally be interpreted as endorsing child labour rather than addressing its harmful impacts.
Responding to the concerns, Freedom Fund representative Ruth Kimani acknowledged the unique and complex realities surrounding child labour and trafficking in Nigeria. She reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting local partners and government stakeholders in addressing these challenges.
Managing Director of Freedom Fund, Havovi Wadia, stressed the importance of building the internal capacity of organizations and institutions, especially in the face of declining donor funding globally. He assured participants that the concerns regarding the project title would be reviewed in consultation with funders and stakeholders. He also proposed exploring innovative approaches for future interventions, including advocacy around the criminalization of the non-reporting of child labour cases.
The visit concluded with the presentation of Red Card to Human Trafficking Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to the Lagos Command and a group photograph, reaffirming the shared commitment of all stakeholders to protecting vulnerable children and combating human trafficking in Nigeria.
