World Day Against Trafficking in Persons: Sensitization Outreach at Ika LGA Akwa Ibom and Ogbete Market, Enugu.
Human trafficking is a serious form of exploitation, and lack of awareness makes people more vulnerable to it. To mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, LLWCI worked with NAPTIP Akwa Ibom State, the Daberem Foundation for the Young and Vulnerable (DFYV) in Enugu, security agencies and other partners. Together we held a sensitization walk in Ika LGA and an outreach at Ogbete Market.
A first for Enugu
This was LLWCI’s first project in Enugu State. It also took our work to another Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom.
What we did
Our teams spoke directly with traders, shoppers and community members about:
- what human trafficking is
- the red flags and warning signs to look out for
- how to protect themselves and their loved ones
- why it is important to speak up and seek help when trafficking is suspected
We also gave out flyers so people could keep the information and share it with others.
What we learned
Language was a real challenge. Many traders had limited English, and some of our volunteers were not fluent in Igbo. Future outreach will use volunteers who speak the local language and translated materials.
Looking ahead
We plan to hold similar outreaches in other markets and communities in Akwa Ibom and Enugu States, develop more awareness materials, and strengthen our partnership with DFYV. We will also encourage people to report suspected cases through the appropriate channels.
