The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully rescued a two-year-old girl allegedly trafficked from Abuja to Aba, Abia State, and sold for a mere ₦100,000. The child, renamed Chiamaka Favor (not her real name), was rescued on May 8, 2025, following an intensive operation carried out by NAPTIP’s Abia State Command, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS).
DSS Arrests Suspected Trafficker Linked to Multiple Syndicates
According to an official statement issued on Friday by NAPTIP, the rescue was made possible after the DSS apprehended the suspected trafficker and transferred the individual into the custody of the anti-trafficking agency. Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect had connections with at least three different trafficking syndicates operating out of Abuja.
“The suspected trafficker, arrested by DSS Abia and handed over to NAPTIP, is alleged to have worked with three trafficking syndicates from Abuja and sold the child to a buyer for ₦100,000,” the agency’s statement read.
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This alarming development sheds light on the disturbing network of human traffickers exploiting vulnerable children and families across the country. Authorities believe the suspect may be just one link in a broader chain of illicit child trafficking activities spanning multiple states.
Search for Girl’s Biological Parents Underway
In a passionate appeal, NAPTIP called on the general public to assist in locating the biological parents or any relatives of the rescued child. The agency emphasized the urgency of reuniting the girl with her rightful family, stressing that any information provided would be treated with sensitivity and confidentiality.
“We are appealing to the biological parents or relatives of the rescued girl to urgently contact the agency,” the statement added.
To support this effort, NAPTIP has released a missing child poster with identifying details and contact information, hoping that someone will recognize the child and provide vital clues to her origin.
Growing Concern Over Child Trafficking in Nigeria
The case has drawn attention once again to the escalating threat of child trafficking in Nigeria, where criminal networks continue to exploit poverty, misinformation, and weak oversight in some regions. According to previous reports by NAPTIP and other human rights organizations, hundreds of children are trafficked each year for forced labor, illegal adoption, and even ritual practices.
This incident closely follows other high-profile cases, such as the one in which a housewife in Abuja recently accused a medical professional of stealing one of her newborn twins during childbirth—a case that also raised serious questions about institutional complicity in child trafficking.
NAPTIP Vows Continued Crackdown on Trafficking Rings
NAPTIP reiterated its resolve to continue cracking down on trafficking syndicates across the country. The agency has intensified its surveillance and intelligence gathering, especially in states that have been flagged as trafficking hotspots. Officials stress that the recent rescue of the two-year-old girl is just one of several ongoing investigations aimed at dismantling human trafficking rings.
“Investigations are ongoing,” the agency confirmed, indicating that more arrests and rescues may follow in the coming days.
NAPTIP is also working closely with other law enforcement agencies, including the Nigerian Police and DSS, to strengthen its capacity to detect and prevent trafficking activities before victims are transported across state lines.
Community Involvement Key to Combating Child Trafficking
Stakeholders are urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities involving child movement, questionable adoptions, or coerced domestic arrangements. Community awareness, experts argue, remains the first line of defense against human trafficking.
Parents are also advised to be cautious when entrusting children to relatives or intermediaries who promise better education or care in urban areas. Many trafficking cases begin with false assurances and end in heartbreak.
How to Report or Claim the Rescued Child
Anyone with information about the identity or family of the rescued girl is encouraged to contact NAPTIP through its official helpline or visit the nearest zonal command. All credible leads will be followed up promptly to ensure the child is returned to a safe and loving environment.
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