The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating sexual and gender-based violence across the country.
NAPTIP’s Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, highlighted the agency’s achievements and ongoing efforts during a press conference held in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
She spoke as preparations advanced for the commencement of the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action to end violence against women and girls.
“NAPTIP has secured the conviction of over 40 offenders in relation to SGBV, with several other cases currently at different stages in the courts. This includes two life sentences, the most recent being that of a 19-year-old schoolteacher from Kwali who raped his nine-year-old pupil. The Agency continues to respond swiftly to distress calls through its Rapid Response Team domiciled within the Violence Against Persons Department.
“At NAPTIP, we recognise the devastating impact of gender-based violence, particularly on women and girls in Nigeria. Our mandate goes beyond combating trafficking to encompass the wider scope of violence against persons.
“Through proactive awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programmes and strict enforcement of the law, we remain committed to protecting victims and ensuring that perpetrators face justice,” she said
She urged community members to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting abuse, supporting survivors and condemning all forms of violence. She also emphasised that civil society organisations and the media play critical roles in amplifying awareness, ensuring accountability and advocating policy reforms.
Similarly, the Project Manager for Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Violence Against Persons (TIPVAP), Mr Matthias Esene, said the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) remains a steadfast partner in strengthening Nigeria’s framework for victim protection.
“Through our ongoing collaboration with NAPTIP and other government institutions, we continue to prioritise capacity building, data-driven approaches, and stronger cross-border cooperation to ensure that victims receive timely and effective protection,” he stated.
In her remarks, the Chief of Mission, International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Dimanche Sharon, called for sustained partnership among relevant institutions.
“Prevention is essential. We must address the root causes that place individuals, especially women and girls, at risk, and survivors must be protected,” she said.
She noted that victims deserve dignity, justice, and access to comprehensive support.
Also speaking, the Federal Capital Territory Mandate Secretary for Women Affairs, Dr Adedayo Benjamins, affirmed that the FCT Administration remains fully committed to combating SGBV and ensuring that offenders are held accountable.