NAPTIP Storms Igbogene Market With Anti-Trafficking Sensitization Campaign
YENAGOA — The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Bayelsa State Command, on Thursday, April 23, 2026, carried out a major public sensitization campaign at the bustling Igbogene Market in Yenagoa, aimed at combating human trafficking and related social vices.
The exercise, which drew the attention of traders and shoppers alike, focused on educating the public about the dangers of human trafficking, child abuse, organ harvesting, and Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Representing the State Commander, Mrs. Ngozi Opara, the Head of Public Enlightenment Unit, Mr. Sambo Wariebi, led the campaign. He emphasized the need for increased vigilance within communities, noting that traffickers often exploit ignorance and economic vulnerability.
Mr. Wariebi urged residents to take collective responsibility by reporting suspicious activities, stressing that timely information can save lives and dismantle trafficking networks. He also enlightened participants on common tactics used by traffickers and how individuals can protect themselves and their families.
The sensitization was warmly received by market stakeholders. Speaking on behalf of the traders, Mrs. Ebi Godgifts commended NAPTIP for bringing the awareness campaign directly to the grassroots. She pledged that the information shared would be disseminated beyond the market environment and assured that cases of trafficking would be promptly reported to authorities.
A major highlight of the outreach was the distribution of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, along with the agency’s emergency short code numbers to facilitate easy reporting.
The campaign forms part of NAPTIP’s ongoing efforts to deepen public awareness and strengthen community collaboration in the fight against human trafficking across Bayelsa State.
