In a bold move to combat the menace of human trafficking, the First Lady of Ondo State, Her Excellency Mrs. Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, has declared a resolute campaign against the growing threat. She made this known during a high-level meeting with the Ondo State Comptroller of Immigration, FA Anara, PCC, at the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) Command Headquarters in Akure.
The strategic engagement focused on fostering stronger collaboration between the state government and the NIS to enhance border security, raise public awareness, and strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms aimed at effectively tackling human trafficking.
Also present at the meeting were top immigration officials, including DCI MB Maku, PSC, Passport Control Officer of the Akure Passport Office, and ACI AO Aderibigbe, Head of the Human Resources Management Section.
In her remarks, Mrs. Aiyedatiwa described human trafficking as a grave threat to the dignity, safety, and future of the youth in Ondo State. She emphasized the need for a united front involving government institutions, security agencies, and communities. She called for proactive interventions, sustained community sensitization, and strict enforcement of immigration and child protection laws.
The First Lady also used the occasion to advocate for increased female representation in key public offices. She noted that women, as caregivers and community influencers, are uniquely positioned to develop and drive policies that protect vulnerable populations and reinforce family values.
"Empowering women in leadership is not just a matter of equity—it is a strategic approach to addressing the root causes of human trafficking. Women understand these issues deeply and can drive the kind of change we need," she said.
In response, Comptroller FA Anara praised the First Lady’s proactive approach and reaffirmed the commitment of the Ondo NIS Command to intensify surveillance and enforcement operations. He noted that the Command remains ready to work closely with the state government to disrupt trafficking networks and protect citizens from exploitation.
The meeting is expected to usher in more coordinated efforts, policy advocacy, and innovative strategies that will strengthen the state’s fight against human trafficking and promote a safer environment for all.