The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) is once again in the spotlight as the agency intensifies its campaign against human trafficking amidst rising concerns over the exploitation of Nigerian youths, particularly young girls, by traffickers operating both domestically and internationally.

In a recent development, a group of Nigerian teenage girls, aged between 15 and 18, were rescued from trafficking and forced into prostitution in Ghana. The rescue operation, spearheaded by the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Ghana branch, led to the apprehension of the culprit responsible for luring the girls into exploitation.

The victims, hailing mostly from Imo State and Plateau State, were promised lucrative job opportunities in Ghana but were instead coerced into prostitution upon arrival. This incident sheds light on the grim reality faced by many Nigerians who fall victim to deceptive promises and exploitation in foreign countries.

Reacting to the rescue, stakeholders have voiced their concerns over the root causes of human trafficking, ranging from economic hardship to societal pressures and greed.

While some attribute the phenomenon to the harsh economic conditions driving young Nigerians to seek better opportunities abroad, others emphasize the need for parental vigilance and government intervention to curb the illicit trade.

Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in combating human trafficking, stressing the need for a permanent solution to eradicate the scourge. Dabiri-Erewa, accompanied by representatives from the Imo State and Plateau State governments, commended the swift action taken by NIDO Ghana and called for increased cooperation between law enforcement agencies and governments across borders.

Following their rescue, the girls will undergo counseling and rehabilitation under the supervision of NAPTIP before being reunited with their families. The Nigerian government, through its diplomatic channels, has pledged to ensure the welfare and full rehabilitation of the victims.

Migration experts and advocates have underscored the urgency of raising awareness and educating vulnerable youths about the dangers of trafficking. They emphasize the role of both governmental and non-governmental organizations in providing support and guidance to at-risk individuals, as well as prosecuting traffickers to the fullest extent of the law.