— Opening Ceremony of the 16th Annual International Conference of the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria Sparks Policy Dialogue, Cultural Unity, and Renewed Commitment to Human Dignity

 

Enugu — The fight against human trafficking and irregular migration took center stage on Thursday, November 6, 2025, as the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria (C-ISOWN) held the opening ceremony of its 16th Annual International Conference at the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu.

The conference, themed “Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking,” brought together an impressive array of social work professionals, policy advocates, academic scholars, and key stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond to confront two of the most persistent social crises undermining the nation’s youth and development.

The event blended scholarship, advocacy, and cultural expression, with delegates from various state chapters gracing the venue in colorful traditional attire that reflected Nigeria’s rich diversity and the social work profession’s unity of purpose.

Powerful Opening Session Sets Tone for Action

In her opening address, Dr. Kemi Ottun, Council Secretary of the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria, delivered a compelling message that captured the urgency and essence of the conference’s theme.

“Irregular migration and human trafficking are deeply disturbing social issues that demand our immediate and comprehensive attention,” Dr. Ottun declared.

“As professionals, we must consolidate our expertise and build effective structures to address the root causes and lasting consequences of these crimes.”

The conference was formally declared open by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammed Ali Pate, ably represented by Mrs. Rosemary Ugwuanyi, Assistant Director of Special Projects. Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Minister, she emphasized the federal government’s commitment to integrating social work into national policy interventions for human welfare and development.

“Social workers are central to the nation’s moral and institutional response to these challenges. Your role in prevention, rehabilitation, and advocacy cannot be overstated,” she affirmed.

C-ISOWN President Charts the Path Forward

Delivering her address, Professor Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John, National President of C-ISOWN, reaffirmed the institute’s unwavering resolve to drive social transformation through research, collaboration, and professional practice.

“This conference is not just another academic gathering; it is a movement of conscience and action,” she noted.

“Our deliberations here will shape the future of social protection and influence the development of policies that safeguard vulnerable Nigerians.”

University Vice Chancellor Raises Alarm Over Student Vulnerabilities

Adding a powerful academic perspective, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, Professor John Emaimo, addressed the gathering with a thought-provoking presentation on the growing vulnerability of university students to irregular migration and trafficking networks.

He outlined several key factors fueling the trend, including the influence of academic course choices, economic pressures, and social perceptions of foreign opportunities.

1. Academic Course Selection:

Professor Emaimo cautioned that some academic programs—such as international relations, economics, and global development—can inadvertently romanticize overseas life, leading students to pursue dangerous migration routes.

2. Marriage as a Migration Pathway:

He further highlighted a growing concern that some students, driven by hardship, view marriage as a shortcut to foreign relocation. He warned that such arrangements often expose young women to manipulative and exploitative trafficking rings.

The Vice Chancellor announced that the university is implementing preventive programs aimed at:

• Educating students on safe migration practices
• Introducing economic empowerment initiatives
• Partnering with relevant government agencies for student guidance and policy support

“We must equip our youth with the knowledge and resilience to make informed choices,” Emaimo stressed.

National Stakeholders Join the Call for Social Justice

The conference also featured powerful messages from notable dignitaries and frontline advocates in the fight against human trafficking and irregular migration, including:

• Mrs. Margaret Asoka, Representative of the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs
• Lolo Prisca Chioma Oku, Representative of the Nigerian Correctional Service
• Mr. Jonathan Ukpai Awa, Zonal Commander, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP)
• Chief Dr. Ijeoma Iloaji, National Network Against Child Trafficking
• Oluwakemi Victoria, Social Worker and advocate

Each speaker underscored the urgent need for collaboration, community awareness, and victim rehabilitation, emphasizing that social workers are the “moral backbone” of national intervention strategies.

Syndicate Sessions Deliver Practical Insights

A highlight of the opening ceremony was the Syndicate Sessions, which offered participants a platform to engage with real-world research and field experiences.

Some of the key presentations included:

• “Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking: Prevention, Protection, and Rehabilitation Strategies” by Mbono Essien
• “Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking” by Oluwakemi Ajibola and Catia Zerbato
• “Psychosocial Challenges of Elderly Adults in Residential Care” by Justice Olonta
• “Human Trafficking and Victims’ Mental Strength: Implications for Social Worker Intervention” by Dr. Chidi Nwankwo and Nancy Ipirinye

The syndicate discussions produced key recommendations on multi-sectoral collaboration, survivor support, and the mental health dimensions of trafficking intervention.

Culture Meets Advocacy: A Vibrant Expression of Unity

To crown the day’s proceedings, participants representing various states took part in a stage march and cultural exhibition, showcasing dances and music that celebrated Nigeria’s cultural heritage. The vibrant performances not only energized the atmosphere but also symbolized the shared national commitment to the social work cause.

Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Awareness and Action

In interviews with UGAMATV, delegates from across Nigeria—including Ignatius Ibaha (Akwa Ibom), Mrs. Ibiere Aga (Delta), Naomi Chinyere Thompson (Abia), and Mbono Essien (Cross River)—commended the Institute for hosting what they described as “a life-changing platform for knowledge exchange and social reform.”

As the conference enters its next phase on Friday, November 7, participants remain resolute in advancing the conference’s core objectives:

• Developing comprehensive strategies to combat human trafficking
• Creating robust policy frameworks
• Strengthening inter-agency collaboration
• Raising awareness of the social and human costs of irregular migration

A Collective Commitment to Human Dignity

The 16th Annual International Conference of the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria has reaffirmed the indispensable role of social work in nation-building. By combining scholarship, policy dialogue, and cultural solidarity, the conference continues to illuminate a path toward a Nigeria where every citizen — particularly the most vulnerable — can live with dignity, security, and hope.