The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has identified Oyo State as a major source, transit and destination point for human trafficking, warning residents to be cautious of fake job offers, scholarships and travel opportunities, particularly those promoted on social media.

Speaking during the Stronger Futures Dialogue organised by the University of Amsterdam in collaboration with the Oyo State Government at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, the Oyo State Commandant of NAPTIP, Kayode Alfred, said the state's proximity to the Republic of Benin makes it vulnerable to trafficking activities.

He said "Oyo State is a source, transit and destination state for human trafficking. People are trafficked from Oyo State to other states and countries, while others are brought into the state for exploitation. Because Oyo State shares an international border with the Republic of Benin, it remains particularly vulnerable to trafficking activities."

Alfred explained that NAPTIP tackles human trafficking through its "5Ps Strategy"""Policy, Prevention, Prosecution, Protection and Partnership""which focuses on public awareness, enforcement, victim support and collaboration with relevant stakeholders. He commended the Oyo State Government for its continued partnership with the agency, noting that NAPTIP works closely with the Ministries of Women Affairs and Justice to rehabilitate victims and prosecute offenders.

According to him, the Oyo State Task Force on Human Trafficking, established in 2020, has strengthened efforts to combat the crime through regular meetings, intelligence sharing, joint operations and capacity-building initiatives involving security agencies and civil society organisations.

Alfred warned that traffickers often deceive victims with promises of employment, scholarships and better living conditions, urging Nigerians not to allow desperation to make them vulnerable. "You do not have to leave Nigeria before you can succeed. Many people become victims because of poverty, unemployment or the desire for a better life. Desperation often makes them vulnerable to traffickers." He also cautioned residents to be careful when engaging with strangers online, saying traffickers increasingly use platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to disguise fraudulent schemes as genuine opportunities.

Alfred advised Nigerians to reject any offer that requires secrecy from parents, relatives or trusted friends. "Be wary of anyone who tells you to keep an offer secret from your parents, family or friends. Genuine opportunities do not require secrecy."

He thanked the Oyo State Government for its continued support and expressed confidence that stronger partnerships would further enhance efforts to prevent human trafficking and protect vulnerable persons across the state.