The Deputy Belgian Head of Mission, Veronique Bernard, and her team visited the Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking (ETAHT) in Benin, where they expressed their admiration for the state government’s work in combating human trafficking and irregular migration.
Bernard said that the Belgian Government was particularly concerned about Edo State, as it had a high percentage of victims of trafficking from Nigeria who ended up in Belgium. She said that they were conducting an awareness campaign to warn people of the dangers of illegal migration and to promote legal migration as a better option.
She also said that they were appalled by the exploitation of young girls from Benin City by traffickers, and that they wanted to educate them on the false promises used by the traffickers to lure them.
Bernard praised the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration for its impressive impact in addressing the problem, and lauded the ETAHT for its practical approach in rehabilitating and reintegrating the victims back into the society and the economy.
She said: “We are delighted to hear about the impact your government is making, everything you have said here was not just mere theory, but practical, they were all practical approaches and that is how it should be. We look forward to reviewing and working with your government. Once again, thank you for having us”.
The Executive Secretary of the ETAHT, Ms. Itohan Okungbowa, welcomed the Belgian delegation and highlighted the achievements of Governor Godwin Obaseki, who she said was passionate and committed to eradicating the ills of human trafficking and irregular migration in the state, and creating opportunities for the youths in the state.
Okungbowa said: “You are welcome to Nigeria, Edo State in particular. This is your first time coming here, and we will try and ensure we make this very memorable for you. Some of these fears you have expressed regarding the activities and dangers of human trafficking were perceptions the Edo State Governor had even before he assumed office in 2016, about 7 years ago.
“He already saw these ills, particularly regarding Edo State. And that may have informed his positive decision to have made our office one of his priority project immediately he became the Governor of Edo State, to tackle the ills of human trafficking and irregular Migration. The Governor saw the problem, embraced it, and proffered a solution.
“We are the first Human Trafficking Taskforce in Nigeria, established by law. I recall that from the last national meeting held in 2023; we stood tall as the first to be set up and also created by statute. And we have been a model and also a source of encouragement to other states in respect of our operational style.
“This shows the commitment of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in tackling the issues of human trafficking and irregular migration. Over 5,600 victims have been supported psychologically, economically and reintegrated to family and society since the inception of ETAHT.
“The government has set up skill acquisition centers in all the three senatorial districts of the state to empower our youths, foster entrepreneurship, and educate them on the proper ways to migrate if necessary.
She added that the government was also creating more jobs for the young generation, based on merit, and not giving up on its efforts.
She revealed that two victims of human trafficking were currently in the state’s shelter, while the culprits were under investigation by the relevant unit. She also said that the data collected and used by the state helped to plan and implement preventive and awareness measures for the returnees.
While expressing gratitude for the Belgian Government’s cooperation, Okungbowa emphasized the need for direct partnership and collaboration with the state government. By working closely together, both parties can ensure a more substantial impact in addressing these challenges. She also highlighted the importance of involving non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in their activities, as they can provide valuable insights and updates on their work with partners and beneficiaries.
The Edo State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to eradicating social vices and creating opportunities for all its residents. The meeting with the Belgian Government serves as a step towards forging stronger partnerships and achieving more significant milestones in their shared objectives.
