By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
NIDO Africa, a Pan-African organization focused on child protection and women’s rights, has reflected on a year of notable progress and enduring challenges in the fight against human trafficking. In 2025, the organization expanded rescue operations, provided legal support for survivors, and conducted community-based education programs aimed at prevention.
Working with local governments, international NGOs, and grassroots groups, NIDO Africa helped dismantle trafficking networks and supported thousands of vulnerable women and children. Awareness campaigns in six African countries reached over one million people, equipping communities to identify and report trafficking.
“2025 was a year of both action and reflection,” said Prof. Jude Osakwe, Continental Chairman of NIDO Africa. “When communities, law enforcement, and civil society work together, we can protect the most vulnerable and hold perpetrators accountable.”
Despite progress, NIDO Africa warned that challenges remain, including limited resources for long-term survivor rehabilitation, weak cross-border cooperation, and socio-economic factors like poverty and lack of education. The organization also raised concerns about traffickers’ increasing use of digital platforms to recruit victims.
NIDO Africa’s 2026 strategy will focus on technology-driven interventions, stronger legal advocacy, expanded vocational and education programs, and improved cross-border collaboration. Plans include a survivor-led mentorship initiative to support reintegration and economic independence.
The organization commended the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) for its role in rescuing and repatriating trafficked Nigerians and awareness campaigns warning against false job offers.
“Trafficking thrives in silence and inaction,” Prof. Osakwe said. “With collaboration and commitment, a trafficking-free future is possible.”
