23 January 2025 , 18:03
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About 207 abducted children, reportedly trafficked from various locations in Nigeria, have been rescued by police.
Nigerian authorities announced the rescue of over 200 children and the dismantling of multiple gangs and human trafficking networks in a series of nationwide crackdowns that were primarily targeting child exploitation.
Police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi revealed that one of the key operations took place in Akure, Ondo State, where a human trafficking network was dismantled, and 14 children, aged between 1 and 7 years old, were rescued.
“Acting on intelligence regarding a missing child, the police uncovered a syndicate responsible for trafficking over 200 children across various locations in the country,” Adejobi said in a statement.
The Nigeria Police Force has ramped up its initiatives to combat human trafficking and illegal baby factories, focusing on intelligence-led operations to disrupt organized networks.
The announcement follows another major breakthrough two weeks ago in Plateau State, where authorities arrested a prominent pastor linked to a large child-trafficking syndicate. In that operation, 13 children were rescued, highlighting Plateau State as a growing hotspot for trafficking activities.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has also exposed trafficking activities in Kaduna State involving a group called ACHAD Life Mission International. The organization, which claims to promote African traditions and humanitarian aid, is accused of exploiting vulnerable individuals under the guise of charity. NIS officials noted that these groups often operate covertly, making detection challenging.
In a statement, Plateau State’s Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission raised concerns about the region’s rising child trafficking crisis, revealing that over 100 victims were rescued in the past year alone. The commission emphasized the urgent need for stronger institutional frameworks and community engagement to prevent exploitation and protect vulnerable children.
Local authorities pledged to continue their efforts to dismantle trafficking networks and ensure the safety of children. However, they acknowledged the need for greater resources and public awareness to combat the growing threat of human trafficking in Nigeria.
These operations underline the scale of the challenge in addressing trafficking in the country, but they also demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to fighting organized exploitation and protecting its most vulnerable citizens.