An impact-driven initiative in Ogun State, Nigeria, is placing local school communities at the forefront of efforts to combat human trafficking—a pressing threat to children across the country. The School Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP), funded by the Government of the Netherlands and implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), is positioning School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs) as key agents of change in the fight against trafficking.
Group photograph, ICMPD, NAPTIP, Principals and administrators across 50 secondary Abeokuta, Ogun State
Comprised of parents, teachers, and community leaders, SBMCs are uniquely positioned to detect early warning signs, prevent trafficking and respond when cases emerge. Their direct connection to students and families enables them to identify unusual patterns and vulnerabilities. Recognising this, STEAP aims to equip SBMCs with targeted training, resources, and tools to strengthen their capacity to protect children and young adults from trafficking and exploitation.
Nigeria remains a major hub for human trafficking in West Africa, with children accounting for more than 75% of detected victims in the region. Traffickers exploit poverty, misinformation, and lack of awareness —luring children with false promises of employment, education abroad, or better opportunities. The consequences for families and communities are severe and far-reaching.
Developed in response to these challenges, STEAP integrates anti-trafficking education within the school curriculum and adopts a holistic, community-driven model. The project engages students, educators, caregivers, and the broader school ecosystem to deliver a coordinated response.
Building a Foundation for Sustainable Action
The rollout of STEAP’s SBMC engagement in Ogun —alongside Benue, Delta, Edo, and Enugu States —began with a series of engagement meetings to assess the current capacity of SBMCs and introduce the project’s objectives. These sessions served as forums for both learning and listening, allowing the project team to gather baseline data on SBMCs’ awareness, community engagement, and reporting practices. This data is informing tailored interventions to ensure support is relevant and impactful.
By centring anti-trafficking efforts within school communities, STEAP is promoting a sustainable model for change. The project not only raises awareness but also strengthens partnerships, improves reporting mechanisms, and cultivates local leadership.
Through STEAP, SBMCs are transitioning into proactive, well-equipped community actors, positioned to lead locally driven efforts that protect children from trafficking and exploitation.