The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully rescued 19 children trafficked from Kebbi to Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, Okay.ng reports.
During a press briefing held at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, Governor Nasir Idris commended NAPTIP and security agencies for their efforts in rescuing the children.
“As a government, we remain committed to protecting the vulnerable and ensuring that our children grow up in a safe and secure environment,” Idris said.
“The rescue of 19 Kebbi children, who were trafficked under the guise of education, is a testimony to our unwavering resolve to combat human trafficking and all forms of exploitation.”
Governor Idris assured the rescued children that the state would provide the necessary care and support to help them recover from the traumatic experience, emphasizing the government’s commitment to their safety and well-being.
Misbahu Kaura, the NAPTIP commander in Kebbi, provided further details, explaining that the rescue mission was the result of an arrest made in early July.
He said, “Upon interrogating one suspect, apprehended for trafficking four children, it led us to the rescue of other 15 children, aged between four and six years in Calabar.
“The man had been engaging in this heinous crime of trafficking in children since 2022.”