The Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria has warned jobseekers against engaging with unlicensed recruiters, saying that doing so poses a threat to their safety and well-being.

The EAPEAN’s warning came in reaction to the rescue of seven suspected human trafficking victims in Abuja by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons.

In a statement on Wednesday, the President of EAPEAN, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, said unlicensed recruiters contributed to human trafficking in the country.

“These unscrupulous individuals prey on vulnerable jobseekers, putting their lives at risk. It is, therefore, essential that jobseekers exercise caution when dealing with recruitment agencies and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities,” Ogunlowo said.

He urged jobseekers to verify the legitimacy of recruitment agencies and ask critical questions about the companies facilitating their employment overseas.

It is crucial that intending migrants ask questions about the company deploying them to work abroad,” he said.

Ogunlowo commended NAPTIP for its successful operation, describing it as a significant step in combating human trafficking in Nigeria.

He called on NAPTIP to intensify its monitoring efforts, particularly at major international airports such as Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, and Aminu Kano International Airport.

The EAPEAN president noted that these locations are commonly exploited by human traffickers and other illegal operators in the recruitment industry.

Ogunlowo encouraged job seekers to be vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to NAPTIP or other relevant authorities.

https://punchng.com/private-employers-warn-against-patronising-unlicensed-recruiters/