The Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Rt. Hon. (Otuekong) Orok Otu Duke, has called for stronger collaboration among governments, security agencies, civil society organisations and local communities to combat human trafficking, describing the crime as a grave violation of human dignity and a threat to national development.
In a statement to commemorate the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Duke said the fight against human trafficking requires a collective response that addresses not only criminal networks but also the socio-economic conditions that make people, especially women and children, vulnerable to exploitation.
According to him, human trafficking continues to destroy lives, separate families and rob communities of their most productive citizens, stressing that every stakeholder has a responsibility to protect vulnerable persons from traffickers.
He said: "Human trafficking is one of the most disturbing crimes of our time. It exploits the hopes and vulnerabilities of innocent people for financial gain. We must unite across all sectors to prevent this crime, protect victims and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice."
Duke noted that poverty, unemployment, lack of education and false promises of better opportunities remain major drivers of trafficking, urging governments to complement law enforcement efforts with programmes that promote youth empowerment, skills acquisition and economic inclusion.
He stressed that investing in education, sports and vocational development would provide young people with legitimate opportunities and reduce their exposure to traffickers who prey on desperation.
The NDDC Board member also called on parents, traditional rulers, religious institutions and community leaders to remain vigilant and educate young people about the tactics used by traffickers, particularly through deceptive job offers and irregular migration schemes.
While commending the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, security agencies and other partners for their sustained efforts in tackling the crime, Duke urged them to deepen collaboration through intelligence sharing, public awareness campaigns and improved victim support services.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the NDDC to initiatives that promote human capital development across the Niger Delta, noting that sustainable development can only be achieved in an environment where people are protected from exploitation and given opportunities to realise their full potential.
"As we observe this year's World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, let us renew our commitment to protecting the vulnerable, supporting survivors and building communities where every individual can live in freedom, dignity and safety. Together, we can break the chains of human trafficking and secure a better future for our people," Duke said.
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