By Rhoda Godwin, Yenagoa
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Bayelsa State Command, has welcomed Mrs. Ngozi Opara as its new State Commander, following a formal handover ceremony held on February 2, 2026.
Mrs. Opara took over from Mr. Fadeware Timiebiowei, who had been acting as State Commander since the pioneer State Commander, Mrs. Abieyuwa Ikhidero, proceeded on study leave. The handover marked a new chapter for the Command as it continues its mandate of combating human trafficking and related crimes in Bayelsa State.
Speaking shortly after assuming office, Mrs. Opara, a seasoned investigator with vast experience in anti-trafficking operations, expressed gratitude to officers and staff of the Command for the warm reception accorded her. She urged them to remain disciplined, professional, and committed, describing them as ambassadors of NAPTIP whose conduct reflects the image of the Agency.
The new Commander took time to commend her predecessor, Mrs. Abieyuwa Ikhidero, for laying a solid foundation and for the significant achievements recorded under her leadership. She also acknowledged the stewardship of Mr. Timiebiowei during his period as Acting Commander, noting that his efforts helped sustain the Command’s operational stability.
Mrs. Opara called for the continued support and cooperation of officers and men of the Command, stressing that collective effort is critical to achieving NAPTIP’s objectives. She expressed delight at her posting to Bayelsa State and reaffirmed her determination to intensify the fight against human trafficking. According to her, traffickers have no place in the state, as the Command under her leadership will work relentlessly to identify, disrupt, and dismantle trafficking networks.
Earlier in his remarks, Mr. Fadeware Timiebiowei thanked the Director-General of NAPTIP for appointing what he described as a passionate, dedicated, and highly experienced officer to head the Bayelsa State Command. He expressed confidence in Mrs. Opara’s capacity to lead effectively and take the Command to greater heights.
Mr. Timiebiowei, speaking on behalf of officers and men of the Bayelsa State Command, pledged their total loyalty, cooperation, and support to the new State Commander to enable her succeed in her assignment.
The event was attended by officers of the Command, who expressed optimism that the new leadership would further strengthen NAPTIP’s operations in Bayelsa State and enhance the protection of vulnerable persons from trafficking and exploitation.
