An Assessment of the Institutional Framework for Combating Human Trafficking In Nigeria

Abstract

Human trafficking stands out today as one of the gravest crimes confronting virtually every part of the globe; with African countries being the worst hit. African countries have been differently affected by the scourge either as countries of origin transit or destination. This paper reveals that Nigeria is affected in all of the different forms – it is a country of origin, a transit as well as destination. These developments, therefore, propelled the Nigerian government to join other nations of the world to fight human trafficking. This paper explores the various institutional measures employed by the Nigerian government to tackle human trafficking and assess the progress recorded so far in the circumstance. The paper contends that with a well structured and properly maintained enforcement institution on ground, human trafficking in Nigeria would be reduced to the barest minimum if not completely eradicated.

KEY WORDS: Institutional, Framework, Combating, Human, Trafficking.