The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has received 105 Nigerians rescued during a coordinated operation targeting cybercrime syndicates in Ghana, in a move underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens from exploitation and trafficking.
In a statement, Head, Press and Public Relations Unit at NAPTIP Vincent Adekoye said the operation was coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) following a request for collaboration from Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority.
NAPTIP led a multi-agency Nigerian delegation comprising the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, alongside other relevant partners.
According to the Ghanaian authorities, 119 Nigerians were rescued during the operation. Of this number, 105 have been repatriated to Nigeria, while arrangements are ongoing for the remaining 14.
Receiving the returnees on behalf of the Federal Government, NAPTIP Director-General, Binta Lami Adamu Bello, OON, welcomed the survivors and assured them of their safety and well-being.
She urged them to remain calm as the government commenced profiling, assessment and reintegration procedures to determine their individual needs and provide appropriate assistance.
The agency said the engagement reflected its commitment to protecting the dignity of survivors, safeguarding their welfare and ensuring that each returnee receives the necessary support based on their circumstances.
The successful operation has attracted commendation from stakeholders, civil society organisations and international partners, highlighting the importance of cross-border cooperation in combating cybercrime, human trafficking and related forms of exploitation.
NAPTIP expressed appreciation to the Ghanaian authorities, particularly the Cyber Security Authority of Ghana and the Ghana Immigration Service, as well as the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), for their operational support.
The agency also acknowledged the Office of the National Security Adviser, Nigerian security and law enforcement agencies, and other partners for their contributions to the operation.
Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening national and international collaboration against human trafficking and exploitation, NAPTIP said it would continue to ensure that people rescued from such situations undergo appropriate screening and receive protection and support tailored to their needs.
The agency also urged Nigerians seeking employment, scholarships and other opportunities abroad to exercise caution, particularly when dealing with offers that promise unrealistic benefits, provide unclear job descriptions or involve suspicious recruitment arrangements.
It warned that such offers could expose unsuspecting individuals to trafficking, forced labour, cybercrime-related exploitation and other forms of abuse.
NAPTIP advised prospective travellers to verify the credibility of foreign employers, recruitment agencies and sponsors before accepting offers or making travel arrangements.
The agency reiterated that public awareness, vigilance and effective international cooperation remain critical to preventing exploitation and ensuring the safety of Nigerians at home and abroad.
