Capacity Building Workshop in Commemoration of St. Bakhita Day 2025

Human trafficking has become a widespread crisis in our society, fueled by poverty, unemployment, and the misuse of social media. To address this growing threat,

The Bakhita Initiative (JDPC Sokoto) organized a one-day Capacity Building session on February 8, 2025, marking the Feast of St. Josephine Margaret Bakhita, the patron saint of trafficking survivors.

The session brought together key stakeholders, including #NAPTIP, #NACTAL, and 43 staff members from both the Bakhita Centre and JDPC Sokoto, to strengthen their capacity in managing and reporting trafficking cases effectively.

During the event, 𝐌𝐫. 𝐑𝐮𝐟𝐮𝐬 𝐘𝐚𝐠𝐤𝐨𝐧𝐠, State Coordinator of NACTAL Sokoto Chapter, delivered a powerful presentation on the “Overview of Trafficking Situations in Nigeria.” He highlighted how thousands of Nigerians are trafficked annually, often by those closest to them. He emphasized that trafficking is fueled by economic hardship and digital exploitation, making preventive measures more urgent than ever. He also shared insights into how FIIAP’s support has led to the establishment of a neighborhood watch in Sokoto, with ongoing efforts in collaboration with NAPTIP to create an anti-trafficking task force.

𝗠𝗿. 𝗔𝗯𝘂𝗯𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗿 𝗔𝗯𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗵𝗶 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗿𝗮, the Zonal Commander of NAPTIP Sokoto, provided critical insights in his session on “Responding to Trafficking Cases.” He described how trafficking networks thrive on vulnerability and exploitation. According to him, combating this crime requires a multi-sectoral approach that prioritizes vigilance, cooperation, and a victim-centered response to ensure justice and protection for survivors.

Closing the session, 𝐌𝐫 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐞𝐭, Director of JDPC Sokoto, took a faith-based approach, drawing inspiration from St. Bakhita’s journey of resilience. His presentation, titled “Exploring St. Bakhita’s Story as a Source of Courage and Resilience: Faith-Based Approaches to Addressing Human Trafficking,” emphasized the importance of community-driven and spiritually guided interventions in the fight against human trafficking.

This capacity-building session reinforced the commitment of stakeholders to work together in preventing trafficking, protecting victims, and prosecuting offenders. With sustained efforts and collaboration, we can create a safer and more just society for all.

#FaithAgainstTrafficking