The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his government is implementing reforms and legislation to sustain the gains recorded in the fight against human trafficking, especially in the rehabilitation and resettlement of returning illegal migrants.
The governor said this in commemoration of this year’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, with the theme, ‘Use and Abuse of Technology.’
Noting that his government is grooming the next generation of youths who are able to leverage technology to proffer solutions to societal problems, the governor pledged reforms and policies to guarantee more economic opportunities and an enabling environment where youths in the state realize their fullest potential.
Obaseki said, “Our interventions to address the issue of human trafficking have been pragmatic and far-reaching. We have continued to reap the gains of these reforms and will sustain efforts to end the scourge of human trafficking.
“We have, through the law prohibiting trafficking in persons, set up the Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking (ETAHT), which has ensured the prosecution of persons who debase the dignity of others in form of human trafficking for pecuniary gains.”
He added that the “Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking (ETAHT) has been enabled by law to undertake comprehensive programmes for victims of human trafficking, while investment has been channeled towards Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and enterprise development to upskill young people to lead productive lives in the state and discourage them from falling for the antics of human traffickers.
“While we acknowledge the role of the international community and other partners in the success recorded in the fight against this hydra-headed monster, I assure you that, as a government, we will sustain ongoing aggressive campaigns to drastically reduce the incidence of human trafficking in the state,” Obaseki reassured.
According to the United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, “Human trafficking is a horrific crime and an all-out assault on people’s rights, safety and dignity. Tragically, it is also a problem that is growing worse — especially for women and girls, who represent the majority of detected trafficked persons globally.”
“We need governments, regulators, businesses and civil society joining forces to invest in policies, laws and technology-based solutions that can identify and support victims, locate and punish perpetrators, and ensure a safe, open and secure internet for all,” he added.