The Bayelsa State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has joined government agencies, civil society organisations, and religious leaders in Yenagoa for the official inauguration of the Migrants and Refugees Unit established by the Catholic Diocese of Bomadi.
Speaking on behalf of the Acting State Commander, Mr. Fadeware Timiebiowei, the Head of the Public Enlightenment Unit, Mr. Sambo Wariebi, reaffirmed NAPTIP’s commitment to promoting safe and lawful migration. He commended the Catholic Church for creating a structured platform to support migrants and refugees, noting that such interventions are crucial in strengthening Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking.
Mr. Sambo stressed that while Nigerians are free to pursue opportunities abroad, it is important they do so through legitimate channels to avoid exploitation. He urged the public to promptly report cases of trafficking and irregular migration, assuring that NAPTIP will continue working closely with faith-based groups, NGOs, and government institutions to protect vulnerable individuals across the state.
Coordinator of the Migrants and Refugees Unit, Rev. Sr. Dr. Priscilla Chidinma Ogbonna, explained that the Catholic Diocese of Bomadi—with pastoral oversight over Bayelsa State and parts of Delta and Rivers States—established the unit to provide dignity, care, and humanitarian assistance to migrants. According to her, every person on the move, regardless of background, deserves protection, compassion, and support as a fundamental expression of their human dignity and identity as “children of God.” She added that the diocese aims to help migrants integrate effectively into host communities while addressing their basic needs.
Several stakeholders from various sectors expressed enthusiasm for the new initiative, describing it as timely and strategic amid rising concerns over migration pressures and trafficking networks in the Niger Delta. Among them were Chairman of the Occasion, Sir Dr. Massa Ebimoghan; keynote speaker, Christopher Denedo, Esq.; CAN Chairman, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Opelema; Anglican Communion representative, Ven. Tonye Komonibo; and representatives of the Ministry of Transport, Red Cross Society, Nigeria Immigration Service, and the NSCDC.
Traditional institutions, humanitarian organisations, and advocacy groups—including the Paramount Ruler of Amarata, HRH Sam David Egbo; Ukies Health Foundation; DO Foundation; NACTAL; JDPC; Arewa Community; and others—were also in attendance.
The launch underscored a shared commitment among government, religious bodies, civil society, and community leaders to strengthen support systems for migrants and deepen collaborative efforts against human trafficking in Bayelsa and neighbouring states.
