About 2, 084, representing ten per cent of the 20, 532 victims of trafficked persons to Europe between 2015 to 2016 are Nigerians, the European Union Deputy Head of Delegation to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Young, has said.
He disclosed this during a conference on international action on illegal migration and trafficking in persons in Abuja.
The conference, which had Strengthening a multi-stakeholder partnership and creating cooperation in curbing illegal migration and human trafficking as its theme was organised by Nigerian Young Professionals Forum (NYPF).
Mr. Young urged the Federal Government to be tough on the crime and causes of trafficking in the country.
According to him, illegal migration and trafficking remained a major that requires a consensus effort to address.
He said the scourge required an honest, comprehensive and integrated approach to address.
The Chairman/Founder, NYPF, Moses Siasia, said that government at all levels must create economic opportunities for young Nigerians if this problem must be addressed.
He said this role should not be left to governments alone, adding that the private sector should be involved in creating economic pathways for young people.
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Siasia said the organisation will train and empower victims of human trafficking so that they can add value to the society.
The Director-General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Person (NAPTIP), Julie Okah-Donli, said the agency is working with embassies and relevant law enforcement agencies to curb human trafficking.
Represented by the agency’s Director of Public Enlightenment, Arinze Orakwue, the DG said the agency has extended its partnership to the private sector and captains of industries to encourage them to focus their corporate social responsibilities to support the fight against trafficking in the country.