By Sunny A. David, Awka
The National Conference of Women Religious (NCWR) Onitsha Province has launched an international prayer and awareness campaign to combat the escalating problem of human trafficking in Nigeria.
The campaign, coinciding with the remembrance of Saint Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of victims of human trafficking, highlights the devastating impact of this crime on individuals, families, and society.
The NCWR, an organization representing women religious leaders from various Catholic congregations across Nigeria, is partnering with Talitha Kum, an international anti-trafficking network, to raise awareness and promote concrete actions against trafficking.
The campaign utilizes various methods, including church symposia, public awareness signs in rural areas, radio programs, and social media outreach to educate communities, particularly parents and youth, about the tactics employed by traffickers and the inherent dangers of this crime.
Sister Jacinta Chekwube Okpor, Provincial team leader of the NCWR’s anti-trafficking initiative, emphasized the campaign’s importance, citing the inspirational life of Saint Josephine Bakhita, a former slave who overcame adversity to become a nun.
Sister Okpor urged Nigerians to reject human trafficking and embrace the virtues of Saint Bakhita.
The NCWR highlights several contributing factors to the vulnerability of trafficking victims, including poverty, particularly impacting women and girls in rural communities.
Lack of education and awareness about the realities of trafficking, coupled with the allure of better opportunities abroad, are key factors driving individuals towards traffickers.
The organization cites the particularly high vulnerability of girls aged 10-30 in rural areas, often preyed upon by traffickers exploiting their dreams of a better life.
The campaign aims to mobilize individuals, families, religious organizations, law enforcement, and the government to work collaboratively to prevent human trafficking, protect victims, and hold perpetrators accountable.
The NCWR believes a unified effort through prayer and increased awareness is crucial in combating this pervasive crime and fostering a culture of respect for human dignity.
The long-term consequences of human trafficking, including physical and emotional trauma for victims, financial burdens on families, and societal instability, are also underscored by the campaign.
