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Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has, on the 25th anniversary of the Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF), praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his critical role in advancing human rights and social justice in Nigeria.
In an address during the event in Abuja to mark the anniversary on Monday, he emphasised the significance of WOTCLEF’s journey since its inception in 1999, a year marked by the return to democracy and the establishment of vital initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking and child labour.
He credited his wife, Amina Titi Atiku Abubakar, for her unwavering dedication to the cause, stating, “Her compassion and resolve have changed countless lives.”
Highlighting the achievements of WOTCLEF, Atiku recalled the establishment of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s fight against trafficking.
He specifically expressed gratitude to Obasanjo for swiftly assenting to the WOTCLEF-sponsored bill that laid the groundwork for the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administration Act of 2003.
“President Obasanjo’s courageous leadership created an environment that energised our mission, reinforcing democratic values and providing hope to vulnerable communities,” Atiku remarked, calling attention to the subsequent efforts of later administrations to uphold and strengthen these initiatives.
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election outlined the critical contributions of WOTCLEF over the past quarter-century, including raising awareness about human trafficking, forging partnerships with local and international organisations, and rescuing and rehabilitating victims.
However, he underscored that the journey is far from over, noting ongoing challenges such as the need for increased awareness, resources, and effective law enforcement.
Atiku renewed the call for collective action to eradicate trafficking and child labour, urging all Nigerians to draw inspiration from Titi Atiku Abubakar’s legacy of service and resilience.
“Let us unite in purpose and action, ensuring that no child is denied an education and no woman suffers in silence,” he stated.
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