The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully intercepted 13 Nigerian women who were being trafficked to Iraq through the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The operation, which took place over the weekend, is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
According to a statement released by NAPTIP, the women, mostly in their early twenties, were lured with false promises of lucrative jobs in Iraq. However, intelligence reports indicated that they were at risk of being subjected to forced labor and other forms of exploitation upon arrival in the Middle Eastern country. Acting on this information, NAPTIP operatives, in collaboration with airport authorities, intercepted the victims before they could board their flight.
The Director-General of NAPTIP, Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, condemned the rising cases of human trafficking and reassured Nigerians that the agency remains committed to dismantling trafficking networks operating within and outside the country. She stated that the rescued women are currently in protective custody and undergoing counseling and rehabilitation to help them reintegrate into society.
“Human trafficking remains a serious challenge, and traffickers continue to exploit the desperation of young Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities,” Waziri-Azi said.
Further investigations have been launched to identify and apprehend the traffickers responsible for this attempt. NAPTIP also reiterated its call for increased collaboration with law enforcement agencies, international partners, and civil society organizations to combat human trafficking effectively.
The agency has been actively engaging in public awareness campaigns to educate Nigerians on the dangers of trafficking. This recent interception highlights the need for continuous vigilance and stricter measures to prevent human trafficking and protect potential victims from falling into the hands of traffickers.
NAPTIP has urged Nigerians, especially young women, to be cautious of fraudulent job offers abroad and to verify any employment opportunities through credible sources before making travel arrangements. The agency also called on community leaders, religious institutions, and families to play a role in sensitizing people about the dangers of human trafficking.
As efforts to combat human trafficking intensify, NAPTIP remains committed to ensuring that traffickers are brought to justice and that victims receive the necessary support and rehabilitation to rebuild their lives.
