Sunday, May 11, 2025 - At least 78 Nigerian victims of human trafficking have been successfully returned from Côte d’Ivoire, arriving in Lagos late Saturday night.
The group, which included 73 women, two men, and three
infants, touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport around
11:00 p.m.
They were received by the Director-General of the National
Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Mrs Binta Bello,
who reaffirmed the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating human
trafficking and ensuring the safe return and reintegration of victims.
“This is a momentous occasion a day that marks not only the
safe return of our beloved daughters but also a reaffirmation of our unwavering
commitment to the fight against human trafficking.
“To the young women and girls who have just returned, we say
welcome home. You were taken far from the safety and dignity you deserve, but
today, you are back on Nigerian soil, and you are not alone. You are home, and
this country stands with you.
“Your courage, your survival, and your return symbolise hope
for thousands of others who may still be in the shadows.
“And to those who have perpetuated this evil let today be a
reminder that Nigeria will never relent in pursuing justice, ” she said.
The NAPTIP Director-General revealed that some individuals
involved in the illicit trafficking ring had been arrested and would be
prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
She added that the agency would conduct thorough profiling
and interviews with the survivors to determine appropriate support, including
counselling and vocational training, in line with NAPTIP’s rehabilitation
mandate.
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