How traffickers pose as NGOs, orphanages to lure children from vulnerable families — NAPTIP

Criminal groups are increasingly posing as representatives of NGOs, humanitarian organisations and orphanage centres to gain access to children from vulnerable families, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has warned.

The traffickers reportedly approach parents, particularly in rural and disadvantaged communities, with promises of better education, improved living conditions and brighter futures for their children before taking them away under false pretences. NAPTIP recently disclosed that more than 180 children allegedly trafficked from five states had been rescued from networks operating under the guise of civil society organisations.

The development has raised concerns among child-rights advocates and other stakeholders, who warned that children moved away from their families could be exposed to domestic servitude, abuse, exploitation and other forms of human rights violations.

The Oyo State Police Command also recently announced the rescue of 17 children from an alleged interstate child-stealing and trafficking syndicate operating across Oyo, Ogun and Delta states.

NAPTIP spokesperson, Vincent Adekoye, said the agency had intensified surveillance nationwide and was working with other law enforcement agencies to identify and shut down facilities suspected of being involved in child trafficking.

According to him, some orphanage centres in Delta, Port Harcourt, the Federal Capital Territory and other parts of the country had been sealed based on credible intelligence and reasonable suspicion.

The police also said their anti-human trafficking unit had been strengthened, with particular attention being paid to orphanage centres and other facilities suspected of serving as conduits for trafficking.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps equally warned parents and guardians to be cautious of individuals who offer seemingly attractive opportunities for their children, especially promises of free education, lucrative employment or a better life elsewhere.

Child-rights advocates have also called for stronger regulation of orphanages and organisations involved in child-focused interventions, as well as improved coordination among government agencies to prevent traffickers from exploiting regulatory gaps.

They urged parents to verify the identity and registration status of any organisation seeking to take custody of their children and to report suspicious movements or activities involving minors to the appropriate authorities.