A recent incident in Adamawa, where 13 children were trafficked and later rescued, highlights the urgent need for strengthened child protection measures in Nigeria.
As an organization dedicated to access to justice, we condemn this heinous crime and call on the government and partners to take concrete actions to prevent child trafficking.
The Child Rights Act (2003) and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administration Act (2015) provide the legal framework for protecting children from trafficking in Nigeria. Section 30 of the Child Rights Act prohibits the sale and trafficking of children, while the Trafficking in Persons Act criminalizes human trafficking, including child trafficking.
Child trafficking is a growing concern in Nigeria, with many children being trafficked for forced labor, exploitation, and other forms of abuse. The recent rescue in Adamawa is a testament to the efforts of law enforcement agencies, but it also underscores the need for more comprehensive measures to prevent child trafficking.
We urge the government and partners to:
1. Strengthen law enforcement and prosecution of child trafficking cases.
2. Increase support for families and communities to prevent child vulnerability.
3. Enhance collaboration between government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners to combat child trafficking.
We invite like-minded organizations and individuals to partner with us to:
1. Advocate for policy reforms and increased funding for anti-trafficking initiatives.
2. Support community-based programs that promote child safety and well-being.
3. Enhance access to justice for victims of child trafficking.
Together, We Can
Protect children from trafficking and exploitation.
Ensure access to justice for victims and their families.
Create a safer and more protective environment for all children in Nigeria.
Let’s work together to protect our children and prevent child trafficking.
#EndChildTraffickin#ProtectOurChildren#AccessToJustice#ChildRights#TraffickingFreeNigeria#JusticeForChildren #AntiTrafficking#ChildProtection
IOM – UN MigrationNaptip NigeriaAmerican University of NigeriaUNFPA NigeriaNRC – Norwegian Refugee CouncilPlan International NigeriaUNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency