NAPTIP reviews its counter-trafficking data collection

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, has commenced review of it’s data collection tools, as well as the national template for human trafficking data collection and analysis.

The goal is to ensure that they are both comprehensive and responsive to current needs in counter-trafficking by introducing vital components, such as disability indicators and others, to promote inclusive data reporting and ensure that no one is overlooked in the anti-trafficking initiatives.

The Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Bello, made the disclosure in a- 5 days step-down training on the reviewed data collection for implementation of Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Human Trafficking, in Enugu.

Bello said the training was a critical milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to improve data-driven responses to human trafficking. 

Bello who was represented by the South East Zonal Commander of the agency Mr Jonathan Ukpai said the workshop was the culmination of the project tagged “From Policy to Action: Implementation of the National Action Plan on Human Trafficking in Nigeria (2022–2026).

Bello explained that the agency in 2024 undertook an internal review of its data collection tools, introducing key improvements, including disability indicators to ensure more inclusive and accurate reporting. 

“These revised instruments were further refined in collaboration with a consultant to align them with the project’s framework, culminating in the creation of a comprehensive national database and a dynamic data dashboard.

“The reviewed tools were pilot-tested during a training of trainers held in Abuja from July 1st to 5th. This workshop serves to cascade the knowledge to frontline officers across NAPTIP offices, State Task Forces, and partner Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)," she said.

In his speech, the Enugu State Attorney General and Commission for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh commended NAPTIP for the numerous work they are doing in curbing human trafficking.

Udeh pledged state government's commitment and assistant to ensure that the agency gets all necessary support to easy their work.

NAPTIP’s Director of Research and Programme Development, Mr Josiah Emerole, emphasised the critical role of data in combating human trafficking. 

 Emerole who was represented by his deputy director, Mr Rasheed Olatunji noted that the training was coming at a time when the agency and the federal government, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration were focusing on evidence-based performance. 

While stressing that reliable data was the bedrock of accountability, the director said the participants were trained on the reviewed data collection instruments developed to enhance evidence-based programming and improve coordination across national and sub-national levels.

According to Emerole, the workshop was aimed at strengthening data collection and reporting on the implementation of Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Human Trafficking.

In his goodwill message, the UNODC Country Representative, Mr Cheikh Toure, commended the enthusiasm and commitment of stakeholders working at the frontline of Nigeria’s anti-trafficking response.

He announced that the next major milestone would be the launch of the National Action Plan Reporting Dashboard on July 30, to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. 

According to Toure, the harmonised reporting tools reflect a deliberate emphasis on gender responsiveness and disability inclusion.