How Traffickers Use Gyms and Fake Jobs to Trap Nigerians

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has warned Nigerians to be careful not to fall victim to human traffickers. These traffickers take advantage of social relationships, gyms, and fake job ads to recruit unsuspecting victims.

The agency said traffickers often approach women at recreational centres and other social spots. They build relationships and gain trust before pulling them into trafficking networks.

Adekoye Vincent, the spokesman for NAPTIP, gave this warning on Thursday during a joint briefing with security and intelligence agencies in Abuja.

Vincent explained that traffickers sometimes pretend to be service providers. They offer help with daily needs, shopping, and other activities to create familiarity with their potential victims.

He said, "Traffickers are increasingly exploiting social relationships and the vulnerabilities of unsuspecting individuals, particularly women, to lure victims into their traps."

"One of the methods they use is to approach people in places such as gyms, recreational centres and other social environments."

"They initially present themselves as service providers, offering assistance with domestic needs, shopping, sourcing goods and other everyday activities."

According to him, traffickers get the phone numbers of their targets. They build relationships by making themselves seem dependable and available to help.

He said some traffickers show up whenever their potential victims have problems, like car breakdowns, to win their trust.

"These seemingly harmless gestures are often part of a deliberate strategy to gain the victim’s trust," he said.

Fake Job Advertisements

The NAPTIP spokesman also raised concerns about fake job ads, especially online. These ads trick job seekers and pull them into trafficking networks.

He shared that the agency has seen cases of Nigerians who traveled long distances looking for work but ended up with traffickers.

"We have recorded very disturbing cases involving people who travelled long distances in search of employment opportunities only to fall into the hands of traffickers."

"One particularly troubling case involved a lawyer who travelled from Benue State to a law chamber in Abuja but unfortunately fell into the wrong hands," Vincent said.

He added that he spoke to the victim, calling the experience deeply disturbing.

Vincent also warned that trafficking can have serious emotional and psychological effects on victims. Sometimes, it leads to unwanted pregnancies.

He urged Nigerians to be careful when making online friendships or accepting offers for help and jobs.

"People should avoid rushing into online friendships and should always verify the identities and intentions of individuals they meet, particularly those making attractive offers of jobs, financial assistance or other opportunities," he advised.