Tinubu noted that many young Nigerians, including graduates, are being lured abroad through fake employment and investment opportunities.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigeria’s First Lady and former federal lawmaker, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, has blamed the increase in human trafficking on online scams, alerting that social media is increasingly being used as a tool for the crime.
The former senator made this known recently in her message as the world marked the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
The day, which is observed annually on July 30, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013 to raise awareness about human trafficking and promote the protection of victims’ rights.
According to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in Nigeria, 156 victims have been rescued since January 2026, while more than 300 Nigerians were repatriated from Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire in 2025.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam”, Tinubu noted that human trafficking has evolved beyond traditional forms and now includes online deception, forced criminal activities, and organised transnational crime.
She further explained that many young Nigerians, including graduates, are being lured abroad through fake employment and investment opportunities.
She added that once recruited, victims often find themselves trapped in exploitative conditions and compelled to participate in criminal operations.
Mrs Tinubu called on citizens, communities, and institutions to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, stressing the need to protect vulnerable individuals from traffickers’ increasingly sophisticated methods.
“Let us remain vigilant, protect the vulnerable, and ensure that no one falls victim to exploitation,” she said, adding that collective efforts are necessary to build a society where people can live with freedom, dignity, and hope.
