The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), in collaboration with the British High Commission Abuja, has convened a survivor-focused event to draw attention to the growing global crisis of human trafficking into cyber-enabled scam operations across Southeast Asia.
The event, titled “Confronting the Global Scam Centre Crisis: Perspectives of Nigerian Survivors,” featured testimonies from recently repatriated Nigerians who were lured abroad with fake job offers and later trafficked to Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand. Many of them were allegedly forced to participate in complex cyber fraud schemes under harsh and exploitative conditions.
The programme followed a joint rescue effort involving NAPTIP, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian Embassy in Bangkok and the British non-governmental organisation EDEN. Coordinated interventions, including on-the-ground operations near the Thai–Myanmar border and welfare visits to affected Nigerians held at Bangkok’s Immigration Detention Centre, facilitated the safe return of 23 survivors to Nigeria earlier this month.
According to the 2026 report titled “A Wicked Problem” by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, at least 120,000 individuals are believed to be trapped in forced scam operations in Myanmar alone, with the figure exceeding 300,000 across Southeast Asia. The report indicates that victims originate from no fewer than 66 countries. It also states that between 2020 and 2025, 74 per cent of identified victims trafficked into scam centres globally were taken to Southeast Asia after being promised lucrative employment.
The Abuja event offered survivors a secure platform to recount how they were recruited, the conditions they endured within the scam compounds, and their eventual path to safety and recovery.
Gill Lever OBE, UK Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, said the event was designed to amplify the voices of those directly affected.
“We are here today to listen to survivors who have shown remarkable bravery in sharing their experiences. The UK is working closely with NAPTIP, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, EDEN and IOM to ensure survivors receive trauma-informed care and safe repatriation. Their courage will help prevent others from being harmed, and we stand firmly with Nigeria and all African Commonwealth partners in confronting this rapidly evolving threat.”
Speaking on behalf of NAPTIP’s Director-General, Mrs Kehinde Akomolafe, the Director of Public Enlightenment, commended the survivors for their courage.
“The courage these survivors have shown in sharing their stories is remarkable. Their experiences expose the brutal reality of trafficking into scam centres, a crime that strips people of their dignity and freedom. NAPTIP is committed to protecting Nigerian citizens from this growing threat and grateful for the steadfast support from our partners in ensuring survivors receive the comprehensive support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.”
One of the survivors recounted the deception that led to the ordeal.
“I was promised opportunity, a good job and a chance for a better life. Instead, I was trapped and forced to do things that went against everything I believe in, while living in constant fear. I am sharing my story so that other Nigerians can recognise the warning signs and protect themselves. No one should have to endure what we experienced.”
