In a bold effort to address the increasing problem of drug abuse and human trafficking in Nigeria, the Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT), in partnership with Handle Pro Bono Links and Empowerment Foundation (HPBLEF), has spearheaded a grassroots awareness campaign across key communities in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The initiative, organised by HPBLEF to mark the International Day of Criminal Justice, aimed to educate residents—particularly traditional leaders, youths, and women—about the dangers of these societal issues and to promote community-driven solutions.
The outreach, which began at Demonstration Junction in Gwagwalada, attracted a congregation of locals keen to engage with the campaign team.
The delegation later paid a courtesy visit to the Agudu Palace, where they met with the paramount ruler of the area, along with district heads and traditional titleholders.
During the visit, Paul Utebor, a developmental researcher with NACAT, described the situation as dire.
“Drug abuse has become a silent killer in our communities. It does not just destroy individuals, it rips apart the fabric of families and destabilises society.
“This campaign is not just an awareness drive. It is a call to action for every father, mother, leader, and youth to rise and protect our future,” he said.
The paramount ruler of Agudu, while commending the initiative, said the message was timely and necessary. “We are grateful that NACAT and HPBLEF have come here today. We, as traditional leaders, will carry this message to our wards. This is our collective responsibility,” he assured.
From Agudu, the campaign team proceeded to Dagiri, where Chief Ahmed Saidu Ndako, the Maiangwa of the community, warmly received them.
Addressing a mixed gathering of women and youth at the palace grounds, Miss Joy Tomo, NACAT’s Programme Manager, exposed the dangerous tricks deployed by human traffickers.
“Traffickers target poor communities like ours. They come with promises of jobs abroad or in the cities. But what they don’t tell you is that many of these victims end up in slavery, prostitution, and exploitative labour. That’s why knowledge is power, and it is the best form of protection,” she said.
Tomo also shared practical ways for people to spot red flags and avoid being tempted. Her message particularly resonated with young girls and mothers in the audience, many of whom asked questions and expressed concerns about their children’s safety.
The final stop of the sensitisation journey was Angwandodo, where elders and youth gathered at the community leader’s palace to listen to the delegation. Discussions focused on the urgent need to unite as a community against the threats of trafficking and drug abuse.
In her address, Ms. Oboh Christy, Chairperson and Founder of HPBLEF, warned community members against engaging in criminal acts, emphasising that ignorance of the law is no excuse.
“We offer free legal services for the vulnerable, but we also educate people so they don’t fall into the trap of the law in the first place,” she said. “We also take gender-based violence very seriously. Domestic abuse is a crime, and we will ensure the law catches up with any offender.”
She added that the HPBLEF’s pro bono legal services were available to help women, the aged, and economically disadvantaged citizens access justice.
