The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescued 24 victims of human trafficking at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, including a young woman deceived and trafficked by her own father, a retired senior law enforcement officer.
The victims, aged between 15 and 26, were recruited from Kano, Katsina, Oyo, Ondo, and Rivers States. They were being trafficked to countries including Iraq, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Afghanistan. Many of the victims spoke only their local dialects, and some were unaware of their actual destination.
One of the rescued girls recounted how her father misled her: “They told my mother that they are taking me to Europe, where I will work and earn dollars. My parent were happy and they allowed me to follow them. I thank DG and her officers for rescuing me. I just need my passport; I want to go back to my town and settle.”
According to the statement by NAPTIP's, National Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, The operation, led by NAPTIP Director General Binta Adamu Bello, OON, lasted nearly six hours and resulted in the arrest of five suspected traffickers. DG Bello condemned the actions of traffickers and unregistered labor recruiters, noting that airports have become comfort zones for such illicit activities.
“This operation demonstrates our firm resolve to protect Nigerians from all forms of exploitation,” DG Bello said. She expressed gratitude to the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, the Department of State Services, airport security personnel, immigration officers, and airline operators for their support.
The rescued victims are now receiving counseling and support at NAPTIP headquarters, while the arrested suspects are undergoing investigation and will face prosecution.