The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully rescued 19 underage children who were trafficked from Kebbi State to Calabar, Cross River State.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, while receiving the children from NAPTIP on Monday, expressed his gratitude and pride in the rescue operation. He attributed the success to the strong collaboration between NAPTIP, the Kebbi State government, and various partner agencies.
Idris reaffirmed the state’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable children, ensuring their safety, and providing a secure environment for their development. He emphasized that the traffickers had lured the children under the pretense of offering them an education, underscoring the state’s determination to fight human trafficking and exploitation.
The governor praised the efforts of all agencies involved in the operation and promised continued support for initiatives aimed at protecting children’s rights and well-being. He condemned the trafficking as “barbaric” and expressed deep sorrow and anger over the children’s suffering.
Some of the rescued children disclosed that they had been forced into labor and endured physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. Governor Idris urged parents to remain vigilant about their children’s activities and assured the public that the government would continue prioritizing the protection of children’s rights in Kebbi State.
