IHRC Launches CPC

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IHRC Deepens Anti-Trafficking Commitment, Begins Nigeria CPC Framework

Barely two months after re-enacting its strategic partnership with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the International Human Rights Commission - IHRC Corporation / INTERPOL Center USA (ICA), Washington, D.C., United States of America, has further strengthened its commitment towards a Child-Trafficking-Free Nigeria through Strategic Partnership, Institutional Strengthening and Community Action.

This was contained in a joint statement issued by the Secretary-General of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, and the Head of Diplomatic Mission, IHRC Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, announcing the commencement of the development of the Nigeria Child Protection Compact (CPC) Readiness Assessment and Strategic Framework (2027–2032).

According to the statement, the framework is being developed as a strategic policy document to assess Nigeria’s readiness for a potential Child Protection Compact (CPC) partnership under the United States Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons (TIP Office). The initiative seeks to support stronger national systems for preventing child trafficking, protecting victims, strengthening prosecutions, and improving coordinated government responses through sustainable institutional reforms.

The Commission explained that the proposed framework aligns with the priorities of the United States Government under the Child Protection Compact Programme, which encourages long-term partnerships with countries demonstrating the political will and institutional commitment to combat child trafficking through collaborative action between government and civil society.

Prof. Wasik stated that child trafficking remains one of the gravest violations of children’s rights globally and requires comprehensive responses that combine effective governance, law enforcement, community participation, and international cooperation.

He noted that IHRC considers Nigeria strategically important in global anti-trafficking efforts because of its regional influence, existing institutional structures, and demonstrated commitment to strengthening child protection systems through agencies such as NAPTIP and other relevant government institutions.

“The development of this Readiness Assessment represents an important step towards supporting Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity against child trafficking while encouraging stronger partnerships between government, civil society, international organisations and local communities,” the statement noted.

Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah said the recent Memorandum of Understanding between IHRC and NAPTIP provides a strong foundation for expanding technical cooperation, policy dialogue, community mobilisation and public awareness on trafficking in persons.

He explained that while the proposed framework remains under development, it is expected to provide strategic recommendations that could enhance national coordination and contribute to a more integrated child protection architecture capable of addressing emerging trafficking threats across the country.

According to him, one of the innovative components under consideration is the establishment of a National Community-Based Child Protection and Anti-Trafficking Prevention Platform (NCCPATPP), envisioned as a nationwide coordination mechanism that will strengthen grassroots engagement, early warning systems, community reporting, victim referral pathways and multi-sector collaboration in support of existing government institutions.

The statement further disclosed that the framework is expected to draw upon extensive consultations with government agencies, law enforcement institutions, development partners, academia, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, faith-based organisations, youth groups and community stakeholders to ensure that its recommendations reflect both international standards and Nigeria’s domestic realities.

IHRC also reaffirmed its readiness to leverage its global diplomatic network, Special Monitoring Mission, INTERPOL Center USA cooperation platform, international partnerships, and media engagement structures to support national efforts aimed at preventing child trafficking and protecting vulnerable children.

The Commission emphasized that the initiative is not intended to duplicate existing government programmes but rather to complement ongoing national efforts by strengthening institutional coordination, promoting community ownership, enhancing accountability and encouraging sustainable partnerships.

The joint statement concluded by reaffirming IHRC’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in building a future where every child is protected from exploitation, trafficking and abuse, while expressing confidence that strategic collaboration between government institutions, international partners and communities will significantly advance the country’s child protection agenda.

The Commission noted that further updates on the development of the Nigeria Child Protection Compact (CPC) Readiness Assessment and Strategic Framework (2027–2032) will be communicated as stakeholder consultations and technical engagements progress.

Reported by:

Fidelis Onakpoma

IHRC Head of Media and Strategic Communications, Nigeria.