The Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Adamu Bello, has issued a strong warning to parents across the country against leaving their children in the care of untrusted neighbours, casual friends, or one-off service providers. She noted that such practices exposed children to the risks of trafficking and abduction.
She gave this warning during the official reunification of a five-year-old girl, Rahama Ibrahim, with her parents in Damaturu, Yobe State. The DG was represented at the event by Mr. Saleh Zakar, the NAPTIP Commander in Yobe State.
Rahama was reportedly abducted in Damaturu a few months ago by a suspected child thief operating as a driver. She was later rescued in Abuja by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS). The suspect and an accomplice have since been charged to court in Abuja.
The reunion ceremony, held at the Government House, Damaturu, was witnessed by the Deputy Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Idi Barde Gubana, as well as DSS operatives from the Yobe Command.
Rahama’s father, Mallam Ibrahim, expressed deep appreciation to NAPTIP and the Federal Government for rescuing and caring for his daughter.
>“I want to thank the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Director General of NAPTIP, for assisting my family and taking very good care of my daughter, who was stolen from us. When I saw my daughter today, I was so happy she looked neat and well taken care of. I thank the DG and all officers of NAPTIP. This Agency is doing great work, and I appreciate them deeply,” he said.
In his remarks, Deputy Governor Gubana commended NAPTIP under the leadership of Binta Adamu Bello for its proactive anti-trafficking efforts and the successful reintegration of the rescued child. He pledged the continued support of the Yobe State Government to the Agency.
In a message delivered on her behalf, the Director General thanked the DSS for its unwavering partnership and successful interception of the suspect in Abuja. She reiterated her call for parental vigilance and collective responsibility in protecting children from harm.
“I appeal to parents across the country to remain vigilant and keep close watch over their children. It is dangerous to entrust them to strangers or casual acquaintances. Parents should also avoid sending their children on errands during odd hours or along lonely routes,” the DG cautioned.
“NAPTIP remains committed to the protection of Nigerian children, and we deeply appreciate our partners who continuously support our mission,” she added.
