NAPTIP, Police Deepen Partnership Against Human Trafficking in Bayelsa
By Ebis Freeman, YENAGOA – The Bayelsa State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force following a courtesy visit by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Mr. Emma Ogbuanya.
The visit, which took place at the NAPTIP Bayelsa State Command headquarters on Thursday, June 25, 2026, was aimed at reinforcing the existing working relationship between both agencies in the fight against human trafficking and related offences.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Ogbuanya said the Police Force remains committed to enhancing cooperation with NAPTIP through intelligence sharing, joint operations, and improved synergy. He commended the command for its sustained efforts in combating human trafficking and noted that the visit was also an opportunity to identify with the agency’s achievements.
The Deputy Commissioner further introduced a liaison officer appointed by the Nigeria Police Force to work closely with NAPTIP, in line with the directive of the Inspector General of Police to strengthen operational collaboration between both institutions.
Responding, the Bayelsa State Commander of NAPTIP, Mrs. Ngozi Opara, expressed appreciation to the Deputy Commissioner and his delegation for the visit, describing it as a significant step towards improving the fight against trafficking in persons.
She emphasized that while NAPTIP is statutorily empowered to investigate and prosecute cases of human trafficking and related offences, the Police often serve as the first point of contact with victims and members of the public.
Mrs. Opara urged police officers to promptly transfer suspected human trafficking cases to NAPTIP for appropriate investigation and prosecution, assuring that every case referred to the agency would be diligently pursued to a logical conclusion, with progress reports communicated to the Police.
A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of NAPTIP’s Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, underscoring the agency’s commitment to public awareness and prevention of human trafficking.
The visit further reinforced the shared resolve of NAPTIP and the Nigeria Police Force to intensify collaborative efforts towards eradicating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons across Bayelsa State.
