Late Saturday night, at least 78 Nigerian human trafficking victims made their way back to Lagos from Côte d’Ivoire.
Around 11:00 p.m., the group—which consisted of 73 women, two men, and three infants—landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Mrs. Binta Bello, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), welcomed them and emphasised the organisation’s steadfast dedication to stopping human trafficking and making sure victims are returned safely and reintegrated into society.
On this historic day, we not only celebrate the safe homecoming of our cherished daughters but we also reaffirm our steadfast dedication to combating 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.
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“And to those who have perpetuated this evil let today be a reminder that Nigeria will never relent in pursuing justice, ” she said.
Some members of the illegal trafficking network have been apprehended and will face the harshest legal penalties possible, according to the NAPTIP Director-General.
“In accordance with NAPTIP’s rehabilitation mandate, the agency will carry out comprehensive profiling and interviews with the survivors to determine appropriate support, including counselling and vocational training,” she added.
