The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) on Saturday received 78 victims of human trafficking who were repatriated from Cote D’Ivoire to Nigeria.
The returnees, made up of 73 females, two males, and three babies, were welcomed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos by Binta Bello, Director-General of NAPTIP.
According to Bello, the victims were brought back with support from Air Peace, which facilitated the return flight free of charge.
He said: “This is a momentous occasion a day that marks not only the safe return of our beloved daughters but also a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to the fight against 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.
“And to those who have perpetuated this evil let today be a reminder that Nigeria will never relent in pursuing justice.”
Okay.ng reports that some of the traffickers involved have already been apprehended and will face legal action.
Bello stated that the agency will begin counselling and skills acquisition programmes to support the survivors’ recovery and reintegration.
She also expressed appreciation to Air Peace for its collaboration, describing it as a meaningful contribution by the private sector to national humanitarian efforts.
The NAPTIP DG urged members of the public to help raise awareness and report suspected trafficking activities to appropriate authorities.
