By Media360Impact | Abuja
Tabitha Empowerment Centre (TEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking by partnering with the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) during the private screening of the anti-trafficking documentary, “Innocence for Sale,” held at Hall 1, Novare Mall, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.
The event brought together government agencies, civil society organizations, development partners, and anti-trafficking advocates to raise awareness about the growing threat of human trafficking and strengthen efforts toward prevention, survivor protection, and community engagement.
Representing TEC were the organization’s Advocacy Officer and in-house lawyer, Gladys Emmanuel, alongside Advocacy Personnel, Daniel Alegbeleye, who participated in discussions on practical strategies to curb trafficking across Nigeria.
Exposing the Reality of Human Trafficking
The documentary highlighted the painful realities faced by victims of human trafficking, revealing how many young girls seeking better opportunities are lured with false promises before being exploited within and outside Nigeria.
One of the most emotional moments of the event came when survivors shared their personal experiences, offering firsthand accounts of exploitation, abuse, and their journey toward recovery. Their testimonies underscored the urgent need for stronger prevention strategies and more effective support systems for survivors.
Speakers also identified poverty, unemployment, misinformation, weak family support systems, and inadequate community awareness as some of the major factors fueling human trafficking across the country.
Stakeholders Call for Collective Action
In her welcome address, Joy Tomo, Programmes Manager at NACAT, stressed that ending human trafficking requires collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, community leaders, and citizens.
Representatives of several government agencies also reaffirmed their commitment to tackling trafficking.
Officials from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) highlighted the close connection between drug abuse and human trafficking, explaining how traffickers often use drugs and coercion to control victims while forcing them to meet unrealistic financial targets.
Speaking during the event, Onoja Johnson of NACAT announced that the screening of Innocence for Sale is part of a nationwide advocacy campaign that will be taken to all six geopolitical zones, beginning with Nigeria’s North Central region.
TEC Recommends Inclusive Awareness Campaigns
During the interactive session, TEC commended NACAT for producing a timely documentary and emphasized that addressing human trafficking requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach.
The organization recommended:
Producing awareness materials in formats accessible to persons with disabilities, including the hearing and visually impaired.
Translating the documentary into major Nigerian languages to improve grassroots understanding.
Designing targeted sensitization campaigns for vulnerable communities and high-risk groups.
Strengthening family values and restoring the home as the first line of protection against exploitation.
TEC noted that misinformation and poor public awareness remain major drivers of human trafficking and pledged to continue collaborating with NACAT, government agencies, and community leaders to build safer and more informed communities.
The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that protect vulnerable persons, empower survivors, and prevent human trafficking across Nigeria.
