Rescued Nigerian Teenagers return from Ghana as anti-trafficking efforts intensify
In a significant development in the fight against human trafficking, nine Nigerian teenage girls who were trafficked to Ghana have safely returned home.
Their arrival at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at 9:55 PM marked the culmination of coordinated rescue efforts spearheaded by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), alongside representatives from the Imo State government.
The high-profile delegation included Rt. Hon. Chyna Amara Iwuanyanwu, Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House, and Mrs. Nkechinyere Ugwu, Imo State Commissioner for Women Affairs. These officials ensured the smooth transfer of the girls to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further rehabilitation and counseling.
Hon. Dabiri-Erewa, speaking at the airport, highlighted the critical need for ongoing and enhanced measures to eradicate human trafficking in Nigeria. She declared, “We must declare a war against human traffickers.” Emphasizing community responsibility, she urged parents to vigilantly monitor the whereabouts of their children, especially when taken by relatives or friends, to prevent such tragedies.
Acknowledging the collective efforts that led to the rescue, she expressed gratitude to the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana, Ambassador Adeoye Ifedayo, and notable figures like Eze Igbo Ghana Chukwudi Ihenetu and Chief Callistus, Chairman of the Board of Trustees in Ghana. Their support, along with the Nigerian Diaspora Organization (NIDO) team, was instrumental in facilitating the return of the girls.
In a show of solidarity and swift action, the Imo State Governor’s office dispatched a high-powered delegation to assist in the process, a move that Hon. Dabiri-Erewa commended.
Meanwhile, the alleged trafficker responsible for this grievous act has been arrested in Ghana and is currently facing legal proceedings.
This operation underscores the ongoing commitment and collaborative efforts necessary to combat human trafficking and support victims’ reintegration into society.
