NAPTIP hands over 19 rescued children to Kebbi Govt.

National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), on Monday, handed over 19 rescued Kebbi children to Gov. Nasir Idris.

The children, rescued by NAPTIP in Calabar, were to be trafficked under the guise of education.

While receiving the children in Binrin Kebbi, Idris said that the achievement would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of NAPTIP and other security agencies.

He said “as government, we remain committed to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring that our children grow up in a safe and secure environment.

“The rescue of 19 Kebbi children, who were trafficked under the guise of education is a testimony to our unwavering resolve to combat human trafficking and all forms of exploitation.”

Idris commended the security agencies involved in the operation, reaffirming the commitment of his administration to support initiatives that would safeguard the rights and well-being of children.

He added that “I assure you that we will provide the necessary care and support to help you recover from this traumatic experience.

“You are not alone and we will do everything in our power to ensure your safety.”

While handing over the children, Alhaji Misbahu Kaura, the state Commander of NAPTIP, narrated that the arrest of one suspect early July with four children led to the rescue of other 15 children.

He explained that “upon interrogating one suspect, apprehended for trafficking four children, it led us to the rescue of other 15 children, aged between four and six years in Calabar.

“The man had been engaging in this heinous crime of trafficking in children since 2022,” the commander said.

A cross section of the victims interviewed confessed to have been subjected to forced labour, physical and sexual exploitation, abuse and psychological trauma.