The United States Government has presented a special award for the anti-human trafficking campaign to Ruth Benson-ldahosa, daughter of the late founder of Church of God Mission, Archbishop Benson Idahosa.
At the award presentation ceremony, Secretary of State Antony Blinken unveiled the release of the 2023 trafficking persons report.
Secretary Blinken emphasised the United States’ unwavering commitment to combating human trafficking, considering it a violation of human rights and personal autonomy.
With over 27 million people still denied their fundamental rights, the Secretary declared that the United States stands united with others in the pursuit of ending this heinous crime.
The event was also used to honour the 2023 Tip Report Heroes, recognising their exceptional contributions to the fight against human trafficking.
Among the distinguished recipients was Benson-Idahosa from Nigeria. Her organisation, Pathfinders, focuses on empowering survivors of sex trafficking through transformative programmes that address the root causes of exploitation.
Her advocacy efforts have also been instrumental in improving anti-trafficking policies and legislation in Nigeria.
Reacting to the recognition, Mrs Benson-Idahosa acknowledged the collective efforts of countless individuals who tirelessly work for justice and reconciliation.
She shared the tragic story of Faith, a Nigerian woman trafficked and subjected to the horrors of the European sex industry until her untimely death, nothing that Faith’s ordeal represents the harsh reality faced by thousands of victims while highlighting the urgent need for action.
“It is an honour to be one of the recipients of this award. It will spur me to do more through my organisation,” she said.
