EYEFON PROJECT 2023
The EYEFON project is an awareness initiative focused on educating Nigerians about the dangers of irregular migration and promoting legal, safe alternatives. Sponsored by the Italian Ministry of the Interior, it is one of the yearly core activities of the Nigerian Women Association Verona (NWAV).
The 2023 edition was held from April 26th to May 4th across various locations in the state to maximize outreach. The theme was "Risk of Human Trafficking and Irregular Migration". The program was organized in collaboration with three NGOs: Patriotic Citizen Initiatives, Web of Hearts Foundation Centre, and Rose of Sharon Foundation, alongside other stakeholders.
Attendees included professionals from government bodies, social workers, and members of the public. The event featured impactful speeches, video presentations, and interactive discussions highlighting the latest trends in illegal migration and strategies for prevention.
A special focus was placed on educating parents and guardians about the risks facing adolescents, encouraging them to report suspicious activities and protect young people from trafficking networks. Speakers such as the NWA President, Comrade Osita Osememe, Mrs. Bose Aggrey, and Dr. Ndudi Bowei emphasized the socio-economic challenges in Nigeria that often drive people toward irregular migration.
Overall, the EYEFON project continues to be a strong and effective tool in the fight against human trafficking. Its success lies in broad community engagement and the ability to bring practical awareness directly to vulnerable populations across Nigeria.
Funded by: The Italian Ministry of the Interior
Project Timeline
The EYEFON Project 2023 was held between April 26th and May 4th, 2023. The conference was organized in collaboration with three NGOs and other stakeholders. The event took place in three different locations across Lagos state.
Project Team and Roles
- Victoria Ajibola: Project Owner and Lead
- Abosede Mary Otukpe: Project Coordinator and Expert on EYEFON Project
- Jeremiah Adelu: Technical Personnel
- Ajara Awodi: Event Support
- Mark Uboh: Photography and Videography
Report Overview
The report provides an overview of the EYEFON project, a yearly activity of the Nigerian Women Association Verona (NWAV). It summarizes the project purpose, scope, and highlights the key activities undertaken in 2023.
Location 1
NGO Partner: Patriotic Citizen Initiatives
Contact Person: Comrade Osita Osemene
Venue: 20, Godwin Iyamu Street, Isoto Command, Ipaja, Lagos
Date: Wednesday, April 26th, 2023
Time: 11:00 am
The event raised awareness among parents and youth about irregular migration and trafficking, including the Children Act Law. Speakers included SW. Ajibola Oluwakemi Victoria, Mr. Osita Osemene, Mr. Ajeniya, and Mrs. Abosede Otukpe. Returned migrants shared personal stories. Mr. Kennedy emphasized collaboration with government agencies. The event hosted 45 community members. Certificates, IEC materials, refreshments, and stipends were distributed. Extensive media coverage followed.
Location 2
NGO Partner: Web of Hearts Foundation Centre
Contact Person: Mrs. Bose Aggrey
Venue: 19 Ukonu A Ukonu Avenue, Jubrin Estate, Lekki Epe Exp., Lagos
Date: Friday, April 28th, 2023
Time: 11:00 am
Organized with Web of Hearts, the session focused on educating parents and youth about trafficking and migration risks. Speakers included Mrs. Ajibola Oluwakemi Victoria, Ms. Bose Aggrey, Barrister Ijeoma Olatubosun, Jeremiah Adelu, and Mr. Chima (NCFRMI). 71 participants attended. Emotional videos sparked discussion. IEC materials and stipends were shared. Mrs. Aggrey was awarded a Certificate of Collaboration.
Location 3
NGO Partner: Rose of Sharon Foundation
Contact Person: Dr. Ndudi Bowei
Venue: 13, Adeniran Ogunsanya Street, Surulere, Lagos
Date: Thursday, May 4th, 2023
Time: 11:00 am
The program aimed to educate on the dangers of trafficking and migration. Dr. Bowei focused on vulnerable groups like widows and orphans. Other speakers included Barr. Olatubosun, Mr. Williams (NCFRMI), and Mrs. Otukpe. Emotional videos and community discussion were central. 60 participants joined. Attendees received IEC materials, refreshments, and certificates.
Reflection on the Project
The project was a resounding success with an impressive 76% increase in attendance compared to the planned number. The efforts of the hosts were noteworthy especially Ms Bose Aggrey, CEO/Founder of the Web of Hearts Foundation Centre, as she contributed both time and money by providing food and stipends for attendees. The flagship event on April 26th, 2023, received extensive media coverage, generating earned media mentions from 4 web TV stations - TV 360, IBrand TV, NewsBustaNG, and Daily Trust TV - with a total of 210 views on YouTube. The choice of venues was also commendable.
Recommendations
To ensure effective implementation of similar projects in the future, a feasibility study is advised to determine the specific areas where the issues need to be addressed. Invitations to Nigeria agencies such as the Nigeria Police, NAPTIP, and IOM office should also be prioritized for their input and support. Outreach efforts should target at least 20% of a community, and a town hall meeting is recommended to reach a large number of people. Materials and flyers should be produced in different Nigerian languages to cater to the diverse population. Localization and grassroot focus are crucial for successful implementation, and outreach efforts should extend to places such as mosques and churches. A project notification period of 3-6 months before execution is recommended to ensure proper planning. Additionally, social media advertising should be used to reach a wider audience.
Impact and Observations
Following the success events held in the three locations across Lagos state it was observed that the event had a positive impact on the target beneficiaries and the community at large. The participants showed a keen interest in creating awareness in other communities about the dangers of irregular migration and human trafficking. This demonstrates that the program was successful in raising awareness and sensitizing the participants on the issue. Furthermore, it was noted that the participants made a commitment to protect their children from irregular migration and human trafficking. This shows that the program was able to influence the participants positively and change their attitude towards the issue. It is an indication that the program succeeded in its objective of sensitizing the participants about the dangers and effects of irregular migration and human trafficking. In addition, the participants pledged to be advocates of the campaign against irregular migration and human trafficking. They promised to use the explainer provided during the program on how to detect traffickers. This is a positive outcome of the program as it shows that the participants are willing to take a proactive role in combating the problem in their community. Overall, it can be concluded that the awareness program was a success, as the participants showed a high level of interest and commitment to the cause. The program was able to sensitize and educate the participants about the dangers and effects of irregular migration and human trafficking, as well as provide them with the necessary tools to become advocates and change agents in their community. Towards the success of this projects I acknowledged, NWA and the team, my fellow social worker and the Ministry of Interiors that founded the project.
