Overview

The Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015 (Nigeria) establishes the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP). The Act provides a comprehensive legal framework to combat human trafficking, including prevention, protection of victims, prosecution of offenders, and international cooperation. It outlines the establishment, governance, and functions of NAPTIP, its Governing Board, Special Departments (e.g., Legal and Prosecution, Counseling and Rehabilitation, Public Enlightenment), and the appointment of staff. Key offenses include trafficking, procurement for prostitution or forced labor, kidnapping, slave dealing, and unlawful detention. Penalties range from fines to life imprisonment. The Act grants NAPTIP powers to investigate, arrest, seize property, and freeze assets. It mandates protections for trafficked persons, including non-detention, access to medical care and shelter, confidentiality, and the right to sue for damages. Legal provisions cover forfeiture of property derived from trafficking, freezing orders on financial institutions, and extraterritorial jurisdiction for offenses committed abroad by Nigerian citizens or residents. The Act also imposes obligations on commercial carriers (e.g., airlines, tour operators) to prevent trafficking and requires reporting of suspicious activities. Regulations on whistleblower protection, training programs, and coordination of victim rehabilitation are included.

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