Trafficking in persons has been a cruel reality in Nigeria since the 1980s, one that is un-fortunately still present. In response to an appeal made by the Bishops of Nigeria and Major Superiors to join in the fight against human trafficking, Sister Anthonia M. Essien, HHCJ, and her team have launched awareness raising programs in rural villages in Akwa Ibom State.
Sr. Anthonia M. Essien is a member of the Congregation of the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus in Nigeria. She is a Professor of Sociology of Religion and the current Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Uyo, Nigeria. Despite her busy schedule as a university Professor, Sr Anthonia responded to the plight of trafficked victims by whole-heartedly joining in the fight against human trafficking, through awareness and skills acquisition programs. “I was moved by the stories of the victims. I could not sleep. I had to do something for them,” said Sr. Anthonia.
Since 2021, Sr. Anthonia has carried out several pastoral activities in rural villages in Akwa Ibom State, raising awareness among the people on the ills of trafficking in persons. She works actively in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies to facilitate the arrest of traffickers, and ensuring that they face the law. Her efforts recently resulted in the rescue of several children and teenagers who had been sold to traffickers within the country. “I was shocked to learn that some of the children had been sold by an adult known to them,” Sr. Anthonia said. “My first response, when the father of two of the children told me they were missing, was to get the police and the State anti-trafficking department involved. Their prompt response led to the rescue of the children.” Sr. Anthonia came up with the idea of a Community Action Group – local donors and stakeholders – to involve the local community in the Yak Iyamma project for the prevention of human trafficking.