NAPTIP Warns Nigerians Against Traffickers Using Gyms, Social Relationships, Fake Jobs

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has warned Nigerians against falling victim to human traffickers who exploit social relationships, recreational centres and fake job advertisements to recruit unsuspecting people.

The agency said traffickers often approach women at gyms and other social environments, establish relationships with them and gradually gain their trust before luring them into trafficking networks.

NAPTIP spokesperson, Adekoye Vincent, gave the warning on Thursday during a joint briefing by security and intelligence agencies in Abuja.

Vincent explained that some traffickers disguise themselves as service providers, offering assistance with domestic needs, shopping, sourcing goods and other everyday activities to become familiar with potential victims.

“Traffickers are increasingly exploiting social relationships and the vulnerabilities of unsuspecting individuals, particularly women, to lure victims into their traps,” he said.

He added that traffickers sometimes approach people at gyms, recreational centres and other social settings before obtaining their telephone numbers and building relationships with them.

According to Vincent, the suspects deliberately present themselves as dependable individuals who are readily available to offer assistance whenever their targets encounter difficulties.

He said some even appear when potential victims experience problems such as vehicle breakdowns, using the opportunity to establish trust and create a sense of familiarity.

“These seemingly harmless gestures are often part of a deliberate strategy to gain the victim’s trust,” he said.

The NAPTIP spokesperson also expressed concern over fake job advertisements, particularly those circulated online, which traffickers allegedly use to deceive job seekers and draw them into exploitation networks.

He disclosed that the agency had recorded cases of Nigerians who travelled long distances in search of employment but eventually fell into the hands of traffickers.

“We have recorded very disturbing cases involving people who travelled long distances in search of employment opportunities only to fall into the hands of traffickers,” Vincent said.

He cited the case of a lawyer who reportedly travelled from Benue State to a law chamber in Abuja in search of employment but ended up in the hands of traffickers.

Vincent, who said he had personally interacted with the victim, described the experience as deeply disturbing.

He further warned that human trafficking could have severe emotional and psychological consequences for victims, including unwanted pregnancies.

The agency urged Nigerians to exercise caution when forming online relationships or accepting unsolicited offers of assistance and employment.

“People should avoid rushing into online friendships and should always verify the identities and intentions of individuals they meet, particularly those making attractive offers of jobs, financial assistance or other opportunities,” he advised.

NAPTIP encouraged members of the public to remain alert to suspicious recruitment activities and report suspected trafficking cases to the appropriate authorities.