Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has warned Nigerians to be vigilant as online scams are increasingly being used by traffickers to lure victims into human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

In a message to commemorate the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the First Lady said human trafficking has evolved beyond its traditional forms to include online deception, forced criminal activities and organised cross-border crime.

Fake Jobs and Travel Offers Used as Bait

Referring to this year’s theme, “Trapped Behind the Scam,” Tinubu said many young Nigerians, including graduates, are being deceived with fake job offers, investment opportunities and promises of travel abroad.

According to her, many victims later find themselves trapped in exploitative conditions after their passports are confiscated and they are forced to participate in online fraud and other illegal activities.

She urged Nigerians to remain cautious and verify opportunities before accepting offers that appear too good to be true.

Call for Collective Action

The First Lady called on families, communities and institutions to protect vulnerable people and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

“Let us remain vigilant, protect the vulnerable, and ensure that no one falls victim to exploitation,” she said, adding that everyone deserves to live with freedom, dignity and hope.

Human Trafficking Remains a Major Challenge

Nigeria continues to serve as a source, transit and destination country for human trafficking.

According to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), 156 victims have been rescued since January 2026, while more than 300 Nigerians were repatriated from Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire in 2025.

The agency also disclosed that traffickers are increasingly targeting victims with fake vacancies in information technology, digital marketing and cryptocurrency before forcing them into romance scams and other online fraud schemes abroad.