Air Peace Tackles Trafficking

Air Peace, a leading Nigerian airline, is taking a decisive stand against human trafficking, setting a powerful example for the African travel industry. Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace, has strongly condemned the trafficking of underaged Nigerian girls to Ivory Coast and pledged to repatriate them free of charge. This initiative underscores the airline’s commitment to social responsibility and highlights the crucial role of the travel sector in combating this heinous crime.

This humanitarian mission was prompted by a recent revelation from social media influencer Mr. Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, who disclosed that approximately 1,200 Nigerian girls are currently trapped in Ivory Coast after being trafficked. Dr. Onyema has not only committed to bringing these girls back to Nigeria but also to providing them with free medical examinations and treatment at Duchess International Hospital in Ikeja. This comprehensive approach addresses both the immediate needs of the victims and their long-term well-being.

Dr. Onyema has called for a collective effort to combat human trafficking, emphasizing its inhumane and ungodly nature. He urged the Nigerian Embassy in Ivory Coast to assist in assembling the girls and coordinating their return with Air Peace. He also appealed to the Federal Government to take responsibility for their education and facilitate their reunification with their families. This collaborative approach underscores the need for a multi-faceted strategy involving government agencies, NGOs, and the travel industry to effectively address human trafficking.

This is not Air Peace’s first humanitarian endeavor. The airline played a crucial role in repatriating Nigerians from South Africa during the xenophobic attacks a few years ago, demonstrating its consistent commitment to social responsibility. This latest initiative further solidifies Air Peace’s position as a leader in humanitarian efforts within the African aviation sector.

The estimated cost of this repatriation operation, including flights and medical examinations, is approximately \$212,000, averaging \$176.67 per person. This significant investment underscores Air Peace’s dedication to humanitarian causes and sets a benchmark for other industry players to follow.

This initiative has significant implications for the African travel industry. It highlights the need for enhanced anti-trafficking measures and increased vigilance within the sector. Implementing these measures, including staff training and improved screening procedures, could add an estimated \$12 per passenger to industry-wide costs, resulting in an annual impact of \$60 million across the region. While this represents a substantial investment, it is a necessary step to protect vulnerable populations and uphold the industry’s ethical responsibilities.

Travel agents have a crucial role to play in this fight. By staying informed about trafficking patterns and red flags, agents can contribute to early detection and prevention. Collaborating with airlines and authorities to report suspicious activities can significantly impact disrupting trafficking networks. This proactive approach not only protects potential victims but also safeguards the reputation and integrity of the travel industry.

Duchess International Hospital, where the repatriated girls will receive medical care, is a state-of-the-art facility equipped to provide comprehensive medical services. The hospital’s involvement in this initiative reinforces its commitment to humanitarian causes and its capacity to address the complex medical needs of trafficking victims.

The Nigeria-Ivory Coast trafficking route is part of a larger network in West Africa, where thousands of women and children are trafficked annually. The 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report revealed alarming statistics, with over 1,000 trafficking victims identified in Nigeria and over 2,000 in Ivory Coast. These figures underscore the urgency of addressing this issue and the need for stronger collaboration between governments and the travel industry.

Air Peace’s initiative serves as a powerful call to action for the African travel industry. By embracing a proactive and collaborative approach, travel professionals can contribute significantly to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable populations. This collective effort will not only enhance the industry’s reputation but also foster a safer and more ethical travel environment across the continent.