Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for intensified efforts to combat human trafficking, urging governments, law enforcement agencies, communities and citizens to work together to protect vulnerable persons and end all forms of exploitation.
In a message to commemorate the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on Thursday, Senator Oluremi Tinubu said Nigeria remains committed to the global campaign against human trafficking, describing the crime as a violation of human dignity, freedom and fundamental rights.
She noted that this year’s theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam,” draws attention to the increasing use of online scams, forced criminality and transnational organised crime as tools for recruiting and exploiting victims of human trafficking.
“On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, I join the global community in our resolve and commitment to ending human trafficking in all its forms and protecting the dignity, freedom, and rights of every individual,” the First Lady said.
According to her, the evolving methods used by traffickers require stronger public awareness, effective law enforcement and greater collaboration among governments, civil society organisations and international partners.
She said the theme also highlights the urgent need to strengthen prevention strategies, enforce existing laws and provide comprehensive support for survivors of human trafficking.
“This year’s theme, ‘Trapped Behind the Scam,’ draws attention to the growing threat of human trafficking, a form of modern-day slavery which is usually through online scams, forced criminality, and transnational organized crime. It highlights the need to increase public awareness, prevention, enforcement of our laws, and support for survivors,” she stated.
The First Lady urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against the tactics employed by traffickers, warning that children, women, young people and other vulnerable groups are often targeted through deceptive promises of jobs, education and better living opportunities.
She called on families, communities and institutions to play active roles in identifying and reporting suspected cases of trafficking while supporting victims to rebuild their lives.
“Let us remain vigilant, protect the vulnerable, and ensure that no one falls victim of exploitation. Through collective action, we can build a safer society where every person can live in freedom, dignity, and hope,” she said.
Tinubu stressed that tackling human trafficking requires collective responsibility, saying every Nigerian has a role to play in preventing exploitation and protecting those at risk.
She reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global efforts aimed at dismantling trafficking networks and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Reiterating her message of solidarity with victims and survivors, the First Lady declared that human trafficking has no place in society.
“We say ‘No’ to human trafficking today,” she said.
The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is observed annually on July 30 to raise awareness about the plight of trafficking victims and to promote the protection of their rights while strengthening global efforts to prevent and eliminate human trafficking.