Traffickers taking advantage of Japa Syndrome – NAPTIP DG
Dr. Fatima Azi Waziri, the Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), revealed that human traffickers are exploiting the “Japa Syndrome.”
She made this statement during a town hall meeting with stakeholders on Monday, July 29, 2024, as part of the activities marking the 2024 World Day Against Trafficking.
Dr. Waziri explained that traffickers are taking advantage of individuals desperate to leave Nigeria due to poor socio-economic conditions.
She stressed the importance of tackling underlying issues like poverty and unemployment to combat this problem effectively.
However, Dr. Waziri warned against letting desperation cloud judgment, advising people to remain vigilant and ask questions when promised a better life.
She reaffirmed NAPTIP’s dedication to educating Nigerians about new trafficking schemes and prevention strategies.
“The new trend for many young Nigerians is to ‘japa’ and traffickers are taking advantage of it, posing as agents that can help offer a seamless process,” she said.
“We understand that as long as we don’t deal with poverty, unemployment, and other socio-economic factors, we will keep going around in circles.”
“The agency is committed to updating the public on new methods traffickers use to recruit victims, as many fall prey due to a lack of information,” she added
