As the world marks the International Day Against Human Trafficking, Hangout with Mercy, powered by MercySpeaks Initiatives, brings the conversation to the forefront with a compelling special edition themed “Trapped Behind the Scene.”
The programme features two distinguished experts who provide practical insights into the growing threat of human trafficking, particularly its impact on children, teenagers, and young adults, while equipping parents, educators, faith leaders, and communities with the knowledge needed to prevent exploitation and protect vulnerable lives.
Leading the discussion is Mr. Taiwo Waheed Adegboyega, State Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Ondo State Command, who explains that human trafficking remains one of the fastest-growing organised crimes globally. He clarifies the difference between trafficking, migration, child labour, and human smuggling, while exposing the deceptive methods traffickers use to lure victims through fake job offers, scholarships, travel opportunities, and social media.
Joining the conversation is Mrs. Stella-Ikeokwu Nathaniel, Executive Director of Precious Petals Empowerment Centre and a member of CSOnetMADE, who shares practical strategies for parents and caregivers to protect children from exploitation. She also highlights the emotional and psychological support survivors need to recover and successfully reintegrate into society.
The discussion reinforces a clear message: protecting children is a shared responsibility. Families, schools, faith-based organisations, civil society organisations, community leaders, the media, and government institutions all have critical roles to play in preventing human trafficking and safeguarding the future of every child.
Speaking at the end of the programme, the host, MercyRoland, encouraged viewers to remain vigilant, educate their children, verify every opportunity presented to young people, and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
Human trafficking thrives in silence and ignorance. It can only be defeated when communities are informed, alert, and willing to act. Together, we can ensure that no child or young person becomes “Trapped Behind the Scene.”
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Broadcast Information
Programme: Hangout with Mercy
Host: MercyRoland
Guest Speakers:
* Mr. Taiwo Waheed Adegboyega – State Commander, NAPTIP, Ondo State Command
* Mrs. Stella-Ikeokwu Nathaniel – Executive Director, Precious Petals Empowerment Centre; Member, CSOnetMADE
📺 Watch LIVE on OSRC TV: Saturday at 9:00 AM
📺 Replay: Monday at 5:00 PM
Powered by: MercySpeaks Initiatives
WhatsApp (Enquiries, Partnerships & Sponsorship): 07038880893
Watch previous episodes on YouTube:
Together, let’s protect our children. Together, we can end human trafficking.