The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) are collaborating to curb trafficking in persons using emerging technologies.

Kashifu Inuwa, director-general of NITDA, said on Thursday that it was part of the steps to establish Nigeria as a digitally empowered nation when the leadership of NAPTIP paid him a working visit in Abuja.

Mr Inuwa said digitisation spanned all sectors, and every aspect of society was influenced by information technology.

“We value partnership in whatever we do, and partnership is one of our strategic pillars in our roadmap action plan, because there is nothing you can think of without being enabled by IT.

“Recognising technology as a tool and potential risk will aid in monitoring cyberspace to curtail criminal activities while creating a secure digital space.

“The roadmap for transformation begins with the people, recognising the importance of digital literacy and prioritising talent development to ensure citizens can navigate the digital world safely and confidently.

“Building a workforce proficient in technology is vital to fostering innovation within Nigeria’s borders, especially as the agency focuses on key emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, and blockchain,” he said.

According to him, the technological ecosystem will help make sense of the data Nigeria has to unlock productivity and progress.

He further said collaborations were central in shaping a regulatory framework that supported innovation and bridged Nigeria’s digital divides.

“Expanding infrastructure to underserved areas is a critical step in ensuring that every community can participate in Nigeria’s digital economy.

“Building digital trust remains essential; strengthening security and empowering citizens to engage with technology confidently will make them trust the system,” he said.

The DG asserted that the innovative approach goes beyond policy and infrastructure, adding that the agency was creating a dynamic ecosystem for problem-solving.

He said they had training programmes for vulnerable groups, including victims in need of rehabilitation, which reflected an inclusive vision of digital empowerment.

Binta Bello, NAPTIP DG, said they were committed to combating human trafficking and violence against vulnerable individuals, which could be achieved with the dynamics of technology.

Ms Bello further said achieving the government’s mandates was important to them, hence the need to collaborate with NITDA in certain areas.

She noted that the partnership aimed to leverage NITDA’s technological expertise to address pressing issues, streamline operations, and support national objectives to enhance its capabilities and effectiveness.

(NAN)