Nigeria’s anti-trafficking app wins UN award

An anti-human trafficking mobile application developed by Devatop Centre for Africa Development, a Nigeria-based human rights advocacy group, has won a prestigious award from the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC).

The award was presented at UNAOC’s Intercultural Innovation Hub in Cascais, Portugal, on November 26.

The app, TALKAM, allows users to report abuses, monitor case progress, access online human rights courses, document trafficking concerns, and connect with others for support.

Since its launch in 2019, TALKAM has facilitated over 250 reports of trafficking cases across Africa, including Niger, Mali, Libya, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Notably, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has resolved over 50 cases through the app.

At NAPTIP’s Abuja headquarters, officials celebrated the app’s international recognition. Binta Bello, NAPTIP’s Director General, commended Devatop’s efforts in advancing the fight against human trafficking.

Represented by Festus Gav, assistant director of research and development, Bello highlighted the app’s role in ensuring swift responses to trafficking incidents.

“It is no surprise that this great idea is getting the attention and accolades it deserves,” Bello said. “This award affirms Nigeria’s commitment to ending human trafficking and all forms of human rights abuses.”

Joseph Osigwe, Executive Director of Devatop Centre for Africa Development, expressed gratitude for NAPTIP’s support and commitment to eradicating human trafficking.

Writing by Abdullahi Lamino