— Prof. Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John Leads National Call for Policy Reform, Awareness, and International Collaboration

Enugu, Nigeria — In a bold and decisive move against one of the world’s most pervasive social evils, the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria (C-ISOWN) has launched a comprehensive national campaign to combat irregular migration and human trafficking, reaffirming its commitment to human rights protection and social justice.

Speaking during a high-level press conference held at the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu (FUAHSE), as part of the Institute’s 16th Annual International Conference, the National President of C-ISOWN, Professor Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John, unveiled an ambitious roadmap aimed at strengthening institutional responses to migration-related abuses and modern slavery.

Themed “Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking,” the conference brought together national and international experts, social workers, policymakers, and development partners to deliberate on actionable solutions to one of the most complex humanitarian challenges of the 21st century.

A Milestone in Social Work Advocacy

In her opening remarks, Professor Obashoro-John traced the institute’s growth and evolution as a catalyst for social reform in Nigeria.

“Since our establishment in 2009 and our official chartering in 2022, we have made remarkable strides in professionalizing social work practice and addressing critical social issues,” she stated.

According to her, the institute’s membership has surged from 200 members at inception to over 15,000 globally, signaling a dynamic expansion of Nigeria’s social work movement.

“We now boast strategic partnerships with USAID, UKAID, and other international organizations,” she added, emphasizing that these collaborations have significantly enhanced the Institute’s reach, capacity, and policy influence.

Objectives of the Campaign

Professor Obashoro-John outlined the major objectives driving the Institute’s campaign, describing it as both preventive and solution-oriented. The focus areas include:

• Raising nationwide awareness on the dangers of irregular migration;
• Developing advocacy strategies for communities and institutions;
• Proposing sustainable policy reforms to curb trafficking networks; and
• Promoting a zero-tolerance culture toward human trafficking in all its forms.

She further revealed that the Institute is currently collaborating on the EYEFON Project 2, a specialized intervention program designed to identify and support vulnerable populations at risk of trafficking and exploitative migration.

“Our goal is not just to discuss these issues but to generate concrete policy directions and actionable frameworks that can transform lives,” the President affirmed.

Conference Highlights and Strategic Features

The ongoing international conference has been carefully structured to combine academic research, policy dialogue, and professional development.

Key features of the event include:

• Presentations by government agencies and international development partners;
• Academic papers examining trends and interventions in migration and trafficking;
• State chapter representations, showcasing local responses and community initiatives;
• Induction ceremonies for new members, strengthening the Institute’s national presence; and
• Fellowship and honorary recognitions, celebrating distinguished contributions to social work.

Professor Obashoro-John noted that the conference will culminate in the release of a comprehensive communiqué, outlining strategic recommendations and policy frameworks to guide national and international efforts in combating human trafficking and irregular migration.

“The communiqué will serve as a reference point for future advocacy, research, and inter-agency collaboration,” she added.

Positioning Nigeria in the Global Fight

Human trafficking and irregular migration continue to devastate families and communities across Nigeria, particularly affecting young people seeking better opportunities abroad. The Institute’s campaign, therefore, represents a coordinated professional and institutional effort to address the root causes—including poverty, unemployment, lack of education, and systemic inequality.

Through its growing membership base and global partnerships, C-ISOWN aims to reposition Nigeria as a regional leader in social work practice and human rights advocacy, promoting policies that prioritize human dignity, protection, and social inclusion.

A Call to Collective Action

The Chartered Institute’s declaration comes at a critical time when migration crises and human trafficking have reached alarming proportions globally. The Institute’s leadership has vowed to sustain momentum through public awareness campaigns, community outreach, and strategic engagement with policymakers at all levels.

“This is a defining moment for the social work profession and for Nigeria,” Prof. Obashoro-John concluded.

“We are sending a clear message — human trafficking and irregular migration are not just social issues; they are human rights violations that demand a unified, global response.”

The 16th Annual International Conference of the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria continues this week in Enugu, serving as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and renewed national resolve to protect the vulnerable and uphold the sanctity of human life.