In response to the rising prevalence and emerging trends of human trafficking and gender-based violence along the Ogun State border corridor, the Ogun State Taskforce on Human Trafficking, has intensified efforts to strengthen collaboration between government agencies and local communities.

This renewed synergy was announced during a 2-day community engagement and town hall meeting organised by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and Gender Development Initiative (GENDI) at Idiroko in Ipokia Local Government Area of the State.

Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the Ogun State Taskforce on Human Trafficking, Olóyè Akolawole Shoremi, highlighted the urgent need to work alongside community actors to address indicators, risk factors and referral pathways, emphasising the importance of continuous awareness campaigns in schools, religious centres as well as markets.

Shoremi, also noted that the adoption of the State’s Compendium of Service Providers would guide in the identification, referral and management of trafficking cases among stakeholders.

The NAPTIP State Commander, Mrs. Abosede Jimoh, identified poverty, unemployment and ignorance as the primary drivers of vulnerability to trafficking, reaffirming her organisation's commitment to combating human trafficking, particularly among women and vulnerable groups.

Community representatives, which included the Balogun of Ikoland, Chief Daniel Edun, Ven. Abayomi Adeotan and Alh. Idris Adegoke, commended the Ogun State Government and her partners for bringing the initiative to the border town, noting that localised engagement was key to stronger prevention.

The town hall meeting concluded with stakeholders signing a 25-point communiqué, aimed at tackling transborder trafficking in Idiroko and improving coordination among both State and non-State actors.

The event brought together law enforcement agencies, community leaders and traditional institutions, primarily, to enhance local strategies for preventing, identifying, reporting and responding to trafficking cases and violence against persons.