In the wake of a series of events in January 2023 that brought attention to the urgent issue of sex trafficking in Nigeria, a new organisation has emerged to drive change. AondongulHer Hope Initiative (HHI), founded and led by Doosuur Victoria Tilley-Gyado, is dedicated to advancing gender equality, empowering women, and challenging harmful societal norms that perpetuate the exploitation of vulnerable populations.
The International Organisation for Migration estimates that there are over 1.4 million victims of human trafficking in Nigeria, with women and children mostly affected. HHI aims to tackle this crisis head-on by raising awareness, advocating for legislative solutions, and mobilising support from the media, lawmakers, and the public.
HHI’s origins can be traced back to a transformative series of events in January 2023, which included screenings of the impactful film “Oloture” by Kenneth Gyang. The events, managed by Doosuur’s female-led projects and events management company, Small Business Big World, brought together members of the public, press, and diplomatic community in Abuja and Benin City. The screenings sparked critical conversations about the harsh realities faced by victims of sex trafficking in Nigeria.
Central to HHI’s work is empowering women and young girls, who are disproportionately affected by trafficking. The organization’s efforts focus on legislative advocacy, community mobilisation, and survivor support to combat this form of modern-day slavery.
HHI extends its gratitude to the embassies, Yar’Adua Foundation, UN Women, FIIAPP, members of the public, and the media for their support during the January 2023 events. The organisation believes that through collaborative efforts, sex trafficking of Nigerian women and girls can be eradicated.
“We invite all stakeholders to join the fight against exploitation and work together toward a future where every woman and girl can live with hope, dignity, and freedom,” said Doosuur.