The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has stepped up efforts to curb human trafficking in Imo State with plans to establish a State Task Force on Human Trafficking amid growing concerns over the proliferation of baby factories and illegal orphanages.
The Imo State Commander of NAPTIP, Mr. Toochukwu Ezejiegu, said discussions with the state government are at an advanced stage, with the Commissioner for Justice expected to co-chair the task force alongside the agency.
He noted that the initiative will bring together relevant ministries, security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen prevention, enforcement and victim protection.
Ezejiegu described baby factory operations as one of the greatest challenges confronting the command, revealing that Imo has become a major source state where victims are recruited and trafficked to destinations within and outside Nigeria.
He added that other forms of trafficking, including sexual exploitation, remain prevalent in the state.
He commended the support received from the Ministries of Justice, Women Affairs and Education, as well as sister security agencies, but appealed for greater logistical and financial assistance from the state government.
According to him, the command currently depends on operational vehicles provided by other security agencies for rescue missions, underscoring the need for better funding, office accommodation and operational tools.
The NAPTIP commander also identified low public awareness as a major factor fuelling human trafficking, warning that many parents unknowingly hand over their children to traffickers because of false promises.
He expressed optimism that the proposed task force would strengthen collaboration among government institutions, civil society groups and community leaders to better protect vulnerable women and children in Imo State.
Reporting by Alfred Ajayi