Regulation 2019: NAPTIP issues last warning to defaulting shelters, homes

National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) is set to wield the big stick over non-compliance with ‘Regulation 2019’ on shelters and homes offering services for rehabilitation of trafficked persons in Nigeria.

Director General, Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, gave the warning at the weekend, in Abuja.

She said despite several warnings and extension of grace period by the agency, many shelters and homes have failed to comply with the statute, except Pathfinder Justice Initiative and the Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF).

In a communique, signed by NAPTIP’s Press Officer, Vincent Adekoya, Waziri-Azi expressed disappointment with the erring organisations and directed that they face the wrath of the law.

The communique reads: “Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, issued Regulation 2019 on October 9, 2019.

“The Regulation gives NAPTIP the powers to control and issue clearance certificates to travel agents or tour operators and intending travellers for the purpose of educational excursions; recruitment for labour; sporting activities; cultural, music excursions or competitions; and licenses to all organisations, shelters and homes offering services for the purpose of rehabilitation of trafficked persons.

“The Regulation was necessitated by disturbing cases of the recruitment and exploitation of Nigerians under the guise of labour migration, educational, cultural and musical excursions; and sporting-related travels in some destination countries, including ensuring that operators of shelters and homes offering services for the rehabilitation of trafficked persons humanely conduct their businesses within the ambit of the law.

‘’However, despite the extended ultimatums, consultations and sensitisations, many organisations have failed to comply. As a result, erring organisations risk immediate shutdown.”

The Director General further advised donor agencies, development partners and the public to note organisations that have complied either fully or partially with the Regulation and be careful who they deal with.