The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has cautioned Nigerians about the prevalence of fake employment advertisements in West African Nations’ oil and gas industries.

The warning was contained in a statement that Mr. Vincent Adekoye, an Agency Communication Officer, provided to reporters in Abuja on Sunday, 24 March 2024.

According to Adekoye, Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, the Director General of NAPTIP, issued the warning during a discussion on new developments regarding human trafficking in 2024.

“We have uncovered a new ploy by suspected human traffickers exploiting coordinated global brand trademarks,” he cited her as saying, “offering unsuspecting Nigerians in neighboring West African countries unrealistic oil and gas job vacancies.”

“NAPTIP has increased its efforts by collaborating with partners, diligent prosecution, and raising public awareness of such gimmicks.”

She stated that the endeavor was meant to support operations, which led to a notable rise in the conviction of human traffickers.

She clarified that the Agency’s enlightenment efforts aimed to lessen vulnerability by providing timely and correct information to Nigerians.

“We have received reports suggesting that traffickers have adopted new tactics to lure unsuspecting victims,” the speaker continued.

“Traffickers now send their suspects to various countries in the pretense of offering them rich jobs in the oil and gold mining industries. They also lure them in with the always-blatantly-false claims of monthly wages as high as $900.”

“Victims are frequently told to bring up to N850,000 for other logistical costs and documentation.”

“Once they reach their destination, traffickers seize the money and the victims’ phones and other personal belongings,” she continued. Victims, both male and female, between the ages of 15 and 35, are the target population.

“They are smuggled via Lagos and Ode Jetty waterways to the Benin Republic and other West African countries. Land routes are another way that some victims are trafficked.”

Therefore, Waziri-Azi urged Nigerians to proceed with care, inquire about things, and get second opinions before accepting alluring offers. She said that Nigerians must not let desperation affect their ability to make choices.

According to her, NAPTIP is still dedicated to stopping human trafficking and defending the rights and dignity of every Nigerian.

The Director of NAPTIP urged Nigerians to contact the organization at 07030000203 or 627 to report any suspected incidents of human trafficking. 

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