Head, Abia State Due Process and Public Procurement Bureau, Oluebube Chukwu, has declared that human trafficking is damaging Nigeria’s global reputation, draining its economy and destroying the future of the youths.
Chukwu made the assertion yesterday in an interaction with LEADERSHIP ahead the commemoration of 2025 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons in Umuahia, the state capital.
He said nations associated with human trafficking lose credibility in the global arena, despised by investors and tourists and that development partners are always wary of them.
His words: “Human trafficking is a national emergency that demands immediate and coordinated action from all levels of government, civil society, and the international community.
”It is not just a crime against individuals – it is an assault on our national identity, security, and economy. It continues to rob the country of its most valuable resource – our people.”
”Criminals now operate online, using social media, job ads, and dating apps. Yet, our law enforcement tools are outdated and poorly coordinated. This imbalance must be urgently corrected.”
To curb the menace, the governor’s aide, therefore, called for the full implementation of the laws against the ugly development to deter its perpetrators.
”Strengthen law enforcement and border controls; expand economic opportunities by investing in youth empowerment via quality education, especially for women and vulnerable communities.
”Tighten digital monitoring by collaborating with tech platforms to track suspicious recruitment activity and promote online safety tools for the public.
”As well as supporting victims’ recovery with medical care, counseling, legal support, and reintegration programmes to rebuild their lives among others,” Chukwu said.
