Little Light Initiative Partners with NAPTIP and Others to Mark World Day Against Trafficking

BY UDEME HOSEA

Little Light Women and Children Initiative partnered with NAPTIP and other stakeholders to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30 with a sensitization walk in Ika LGA, Akwa Ibom State, aimed at stopping trafficking.

The outreach was also held simultaneously in Enugu State, where Little Light, in collaboration with DFYV – Daberem Foundation for the Young and Vulnerable, held its first project in the state at Ogbete Market. The team sensitized traders on what human trafficking entails, red flags to watch out for, and protective measures. Information fliers were distributed to equip traders and shoppers with lifesaving knowledge.

In Akwa Ibom, the walk was held in line with this year’s theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam,” which highlights how traffickers use fake job offers to lure men, women and children into slavery and exploitation.

The walk was led by NAPTIP Uyo Zonal Commander, Mr. Ubong Ekwere and the Chairman of Ika Local Government Area, Barr. Utibe Nwoko.
Community leaders, traditional rulers, clergy, security agencies and CSOs called for vigilance and warned against handing children over to strangers as maids or for work outside the state.

Speaking on behalf of Civil Society Organizations, the Executive Director of Little Light, Dr. Munachiso, appealed for collaborative action and welfare support for survivors.
“If you see something, say something. Call NAPTIP, Uyo with the hotlines below: 08069539747, 0803597273,” she urged.

The partners pledged to sustain advocacy in markets, schools, churches and villages to end trafficking.