The Enugu State government, on Friday, called for global collaboration against the persistent scourge of human trafficking and modern-day slavery in Nigeria.

Ngozi Enih, State Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, made the call during a solidarity rally in Enugu to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

She described the phenomenon as one of the most inhumane crimes confronting the world today.

The World Day Against Trafficking is celebrated every July 30 to create awareness of the scourge. The 2025 commemoration has as its theme: “Human Trafficking is Organised Crime – End the Exploitation.”

Ms Enih said the time had come for concerted and transnational efforts to dismantle the networks of exploitation that thrive on human misery.

“Today, on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we stand in solidarity with victims of human trafficking. This crime steals the dignity, freedom, and futures of  women and children in particular.

“As we raise our voices, let us commit to stronger protection, justice for survivors, and a society where no one is left behind,” she said.

She pointed out that the state government had a zero-tolerance policy for all forms of slavery, abuse, and violence that compromise human dignity.

The commissioner reiterated the government’s resolve to continue working closely with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and other partners to bring offenders to justice.

She called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and local communities to intensify awareness and grassroots mobilisation against trafficking networks.

According to her, ending human trafficking requires more than institutional action and demands a unified front by all sectors of society to prevent the recruitment, transportation, and exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

The commissioner noted that this was more common, especially among underage girls and impoverished families.

“Every religious community, palace, and classroom must become a fortress against trafficking. This is a fight for our humanity,” she urged.

(NAN)