On Sunday, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) cautioned the public against fraudulent job offers from entities posing as oil and gas companies.
Suspected human traffickers are reportedly using this tactic to exploit individuals aged 15 to 35, enticing them with unrealistic promises of high-paying jobs in neighboring West African countries.
The Director-General of NAPTIP, Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, warned that these offers, often claiming monthly incomes of up to $900, are deceptive and aim to traffic victims for exploitation.
NAPTIP’s Chief Communications Officer, Adekoye Vincent, issued the warning in a statement titled ‘Beware of Fake Oil and Gas Jobs in West African Countries.
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While discussing emerging trends in human trafficking for 2024, Waziri-Azi said, “Victims are often instructed to bring up to N850,000 for documentation and other logistical expenses.
“Upon arrival at their destination, traffickers confiscate this money, along with the victims’ phones and other personal belongings.
“The targeted demographic includes male and female victims aged between 15 and 35 years old. They are typically trafficked through the waterways of Ode Jetty in Lagos en route to Benin Republic and other parts of the West African region. Some victims are also trafficked via land routes.”
Waziri-Azi reiterated her earlier appeal, saying, “I urge you to exercise caution, ask questions, and seek a second opinion before accepting tempting offers. Do not allow desperation to cloud your judgment.”
She added, “As part of our comprehensive enlightenment strategies to equip Nigerians with timely and accurate information to reduce their vulnerability, we have received reports indicating that traffickers have adopted new tactics to lure unsuspecting victims, predominantly to Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Liberia and other West African nations.”
