Shippers Council, NAPTIP Partner Against Human Trafficking Maritime Industry Records $8.9.m Loss to Stowaway
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and the Money Management Series (MMS) have announced a partnership to strengthen surveillance and secure Nigeria’s ports as $8.9 million loss are recorded globally from 364 stowaway incidents.
Maritime expert and member of the Women of Fortune Hall of Fame (WOFHoF ) , Hajia Lami Tumaka, said the figure, drawn from a report by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), covers losses sustained by the global shipping industry between February 2020 and February 2021. It represents not only a significant economic burden but also a serious security and humanitarian crisis linked to human trafficking and port vulnerabilities.
Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Shippers Council, Dr. Akutah Pius, pledged to boost port security and provide operational support to anti-trafficking agencies. Speaking on behalf of the Council, he emphasised the need to secure Nigeria’s trade infrastructure.
“As the Port Economic Regulator, we understand the critical role our seaports and waterways play in national security and economic development. We are ready to provide all necessary support to NAPTIP and MMS to stamp out trafficking activities,” he stated.
Director-General of NAPTIP ,Binta Adamu Bello, called the partnership a critical step toward disrupting trafficking networks.
“With Nigeria’s strategic maritime position, we must lead the region in creating secure and humane ports. The NSC’s support provides us with a vital tool in detecting and preventing trafficking activities.”, she said.
The tripartite partnership between NSC, NAPTIP, and MMS will include joint monitoring operations, training for port personnel, and increased public awareness campaigns aimed at deterring trafficking attempts.
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