The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has issued a cautionary message to Nigerian citizens regarding fraudulent job offers in the oil and gas sector across West African nations. NAPTIP has uncovered a disturbing scheme perpetrated by human traffickers who exploit well-known global brand trademarks to deceive unsuspecting individuals, especially youths, with enticing but unrealistic job opportunities in neighbouring countries like Ghana and other West African states.
In a statement released by the NAPTIP Communication Officer, Adekoye Vincent, the Director-General of NAPTIP, Prof Fatima Waziri–Azi, brought attention to this alarming trend during a discussion on emerging trafficking patterns for the year 2024 at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja. The statement, titled ‘Beware of Fake Oil and Gas Jobs in West African Countries… NAPTIP Alerts Nigerians On New Tricks By Human Traffickers,’ highlighted the agency’s intensified efforts to combat trafficking through enhanced partnerships, diligent prosecutions, and extensive awareness campaigns. These efforts have resulted in a significant increase in the convictions of human traffickers.
According to Prof Fatima Waziri–Azi, traffickers employ various tactics to entice victims, promising lucrative employment opportunities in gold mining and oil companies with monthly incomes as high as $900. However, these promises are nothing more than deceitful traps, as victims are required to provide large sums of money, up to N850,000, for documentation and logistical expenses. Upon arrival at their supposed destinations, victims find themselves stripped of their money, phones, and personal belongings.
The victims targeted by these traffickers are primarily youths aged between 15 and 35 years, both male and female, who are trafficked through Ode Jetty in Lagos via waterways to destinations such as the Benin Republic and other parts of West Africa. Some victims are also transported through land routes.
Prof Fatima Waziri–Azi emphasized the importance of caution and advised Nigerians to inquire, seek second opinions, and refrain from succumbing to desperation-driven decisions. NAPTIP remains steadfast in its commitment to combat human trafficking and safeguard the rights and dignity of all Nigerians. Individuals are encouraged to report any suspected cases of human trafficking to NAPTIP via the provided contact information: 07030000203 or 627 (Only on the MTN Network).
