FIIAPP Empowers NACTAL Personnel to Prevent Sexual Exploitation of TIPSOM Victims                                                                                                                                       

On the 25th to 28th of July 2023, the International and Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies (FIIAPP), as part of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Project – Action Against Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants (A-TIPSOM) in Nigeria, organized a four-day Training of Trainers Workshop. The workshop was conducted with the objective of building the capacity of members of the Network of Civil Society Organizations Against Trafficking, Abuse, and Labour (NACTAL) to effectively prevent victims of Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants from falling prey to sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse.

The event, held in Rivers State, brought together participants from various states including Anambra, Enugu, Abia, Imo, Akwa Ibom, Cross Rivers, Bayelsa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The primary aim was to equip these individuals to become competent trainers who can subsequently disseminate knowledge across their communities on how to identify, report, and manage cases of sexual exploitation and abuse.

Mrs. Nurat Lawal, the Technical Advisor of A-TIPSOM on Protection, who represented the Project Team Leader, Mr. Federico Milan, at the workshop emphasized that the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of the participants in preventing sexual exploitation and abuse while fostering the exchange of experiences and best practices among participating organizations.

During the four-day workshop, participants engaged in interactive sessions, practical exercises, and discussions centered on preventive strategies to protect TIPSOM victims from falling victim to sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse. They received training on how to recognize early signs of exploitation, handle sensitive cases, provide support and assistance to victims, and collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure justice is served.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Abdulganiyu Abubakar, the National President of NACTAL, expressed his appreciation to the European Union and FIIAPP for organizing the training. He acknowledged the significance of such initiatives in strengthening the fight against human trafficking. Mr. Abubakar encouraged the participants to apply the knowledge gained during the workshop to make a meaningful impact in their respective communities.