A church anti-trafficking training in Makurdi showed how knowledge gained by community leaders can continue spreading through the institutions they serve.
On 30 May 2026, representatives of Glory Nation Global Church (Shelter of Glory) organised a step-down session for the church’s Women’s Department. The activity fulfilled a commitment made after OWACDO’s March training for religious and traditional leaders under the School Anti-Trafficking Education and Advocacy Project (STEAP).
Practical knowledge for families and communities
Facilitator Benjamin Odo guided participants through the meaning of human trafficking, emerging trends, common drivers and purposes, consequences for victims and communities, and the role women can play in prevention.
The session examined tactics traffickers may use and the conditions that can increase vulnerability. Participants were encouraged to question offers that appear too good to be true and to verify employment, education, travel and recruitment claims before sharing documents, paying money or making arrangements.
Interactive discussion strengthens prevention
Women contributed observations from their communities, asked questions and discussed how trafficking risks can be recognised earlier. This interactive format helped connect the training topics with everyday decisions affecting children, young people and adults seeking opportunities.
Udo Nelson Abi, OWACDO’s Monitoring and Evaluation Officer for STEAP, commended the church for cascading the message. He encouraged participants to share what they had learned with relatives, friends and neighbours instead of allowing the information to stop with those in the room.
A model for multiplying anti-trafficking awareness
The step-down session demonstrates why OWACDO engages traditional and religious institutions. Training one trusted leader can create many more opportunities for accurate information to reach households and community networks.
As churches and other institutions repeat these messages, they help build community resilience against deception and exploitation. STEAP is funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and implemented by ICMPD in partnership with OWACDO.