NAPTIP Partners Stakeholders as Catholic Diocese of Bomadi Launches Migrants and Refugees Unit
The Bayelsa State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has joined other key stakeholders in Yenagoa to witness the official launch of the Migrants and Refugees Unit established by the Catholic Diocese of Bomadi.
Representing the Acting State Commander, Mr. Fadeware Timiebiowei, the Head of the Public Enlightenment Unit, Mr. Sambo Wariebi, delivered a goodwill message commending the Catholic Church for creating a structure dedicated to supporting migrants and refugees. He noted that NAPTIP is not opposed to citizens who wish to travel, but emphasized the importance of doing so safely and legally. Mr. Sambo encouraged the public to promptly report all cases of human trafficking, assuring that the Agency will continue to partner with organizations committed to combating trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons.
The Coordinator of the Migrants and Refugees Unit, Rev. Sr. Dr. Priscilla Chidinma Ogbonna, explained that the Bomadi Diocese covers Bayelsa State and parts of Delta and Rivers States. She said the Unit was established to offer care, dignity, and assistance to people on the move, while also facilitating their integration into local communities. According to her, every migrant deserves to be treated as a child of God and supported in their time of need.
Several stakeholders also expressed their support for the newly launched unit. They include:
Chairman of the Occasion – Sir Dr. Massa Ebimoghan
Keynote Speaker – Christopher Denedo, Esq.
CAN Chairman – Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Opelema
Anglican Communion Representative – Ven. Tonye Komonibo
Ministry of Transport – Eberede Kennedy (representing the Commissioner)
Nigerian Red Cross Society – Alabo Victory
Nigeria Immigration Service – Kenneth Ogbogiya
Paramount Ruler of Amarata – HRH Sam David Egbo
Ukies Health Foundation – Elede Inimeze E.
State Emergency Management Agency – Aziowei A. (Secretary)
DO Foundation – Timineblari Keneyinboh
Association of Women Against Gender-Based Violence – Dr. Barr. Dise Harry
NACTAL
JDPC – Very Rev. Fr. Zachariah Fufeyin
Arewa Community – Muntari Danbaba
NSCDC – Preghafi Francis
Rex-Ogbuku & Associates – Nathaniel Lokoson
Bakassi Returnees – Boboye Ofiyou
The event highlighted the collective resolve of government agencies, religious institutions, civil society organizations, and community leaders to strengthen support systems for migrants and intensify the fight against human trafficking in Bayelsa and neighbouring states.
