By Our Reporter
The Bayelsa State Command of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships in the fight against human trafficking following a courtesy visit by the management of the 4S Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre.
The visit, which took place on June 30, 2026, was aimed at deepening collaboration between both organizations as they work to protect vulnerable persons, rehabilitate victims, and raise public awareness on the dangers of human trafficking.
The 4S Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre is a facility dedicated to drug abuse prevention, crime and delinquency intervention, rehabilitation, reformation, and the reintegration of affected young people into society.
Speaking during the visit, the Director of the centre, Dr. Ebieredo Dudiefe Peters, said the purpose of the meeting was to strengthen the already existing relationship between her organization and NAPTIP. She stressed that tackling human trafficking and other social vices requires cooperation among relevant agencies and stakeholders.
Dr. Peters also pledged the support of the 4S Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre towards the successful organization of activities marking the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, noting that public enlightenment and collective action remain key to preventing the crime and supporting survivors.
Responding, the Bayelsa State Commander of NAPTIP, Mrs. Ngozi Opara, expressed appreciation to the director and her team for the visit and for their continued commitment to the agency’s work.
She described the visit as a demonstration of the shared resolve to protect vulnerable members of society, particularly women and children who are often targeted by traffickers.
Mrs. Opara also commended the rehabilitation centre for its previous support to the command and thanked Dr. Peters for her prompt response in supporting preparations for the upcoming World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
The commander said NAPTIP values partnerships with organizations that provide care and rehabilitation services for victims, adding that such collaboration is essential in ensuring survivors receive the protection, counselling, and support needed to rebuild their lives.
She further disclosed that the command would continue to seek the assistance of the 4S Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre, especially in providing temporary shelter for rescued victims, given the organization’s shelter facilities and experience in rehabilitation.
The meeting ended with both organizations reaffirming their commitment to working closely together in combating human trafficking, supporting survivors, and promoting safer communities across Bayelsa State through sustained advocacy, rehabilitation, and public education initiatives.
