A member of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Dr. Hajarat Danyaro Ibrahim, has reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to partner with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to address violence, trafficking, and exploitation affecting women and children in the state.
Dr. Danyaro made this known on Monday while hosting the Nasarawa State Commandant of NAPTIP, Hajiya Sa’adatu Galadima, at her office in Lafia. The visit was part of activities marking the celebration of International Women’s Day.
The meeting focused on critical social issues including child labour, out-of-school children, women trafficking, prostitution, and other forms of violence against women and children.
Dr. Danyaro, the only female lawmaker in the Nasarawa Assembly, expressed concern over the increasing cases of rights violations against women and children. She called for stronger collaboration between government institutions and relevant agencies to effectively address the challenges.
She noted that although Nasarawa State has recorded limited cases of human trafficking compared to some other states, proactive measures must be taken to prevent the problem from escalating.
The lawmaker also urged women to embrace skill acquisition programmes as a way of reducing poverty and improving their economic independence.
Dr. Danyaro assured that the Assembly is ready to support NAPTIP and other relevant organisations through legislative backing, adding that she is currently sponsoring a bill aimed at addressing issues related to violence against women and children.
Earlier, the State Commandant of NAPTIP, Hajiya Sa’adatu Galadima, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the female legislator in the fight against human trafficking and other forms of abuse affecting vulnerable groups.
According to her, the engagement also formed part of activities commemorating International Women’s Day, which celebrates the achievements of women while highlighting the challenges they continue to face.
Galadima identified several issues affecting women and children, including early marriage, child labour, abuse, out-of-school children, and prostitution.
She called for increased participation of women in politics, improved access to education for the girl child, and greater opportunities for women to receive professional and vocational training.
The NAPTIP commandant expressed optimism that stronger partnerships between lawmakers, government agencies, and communities would significantly reduce cases of violence and exploitation in the society.