Three Nigerian teenagers — Divine, Favour, and Bright — have been rescued from a human trafficking syndicate in Ghana and successfully returned to Nigeria, according to an official announcement by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
The girls, aged between 17 and 19, were victims of deception and exploitation after being lured from Bayelsa and Ebonyi States with promises of high-paying job opportunities abroad. Their ordeal highlights the growing threat of cross-border human trafficking targeting vulnerable young Nigerians, especially girls.
According to a statement issued by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols at NiDCOM, the girls were misled by women they referred to as their “aunties,” who promised them a better life in Ghana. Upon arrival, however, the teenagers were forced into exploitative conditions and denied the freedom they were promised.
“This is a disturbing case of deceit and abuse,” the statement read. “These young girls were promised opportunities but were instead pushed into an exploitative network that thrives on false hope and manipulation.”
Coordinated Rescue Operation
Their rescue followed a collaborative effort involving NiDCOM, the Nigerian Embassy in Accra, the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Ghana, and several concerned individuals who acted swiftly to intervene. The three girls were officially received on Thursday at NiDCOM’s office in Lagos, where they were welcomed back to the country and immediately handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for profiling, counseling, and rehabilitation.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, expressed deep concern over the incident and commended those involved in securing the teenagers’ freedom.
“This rescue is not only a relief but also a wake-up call,” Dabiri-Erewa said. “We must intensify our efforts to stop trafficking at the source. Communities, families, and governments must work together to expose traffickers and dismantle their networks.”
She warned that human trafficking would continue to fester unless traffickers and their enablers are held accountable.
“Human trafficking will persist if traffickers and their agents are not exposed and shamed,” she stressed. “It is a global issue, but one that affects us deeply here in Nigeria. Until communities stop covering up for these criminals, more lives will be lost to this evil trade.”
Victims of False Promises
The teenage girls, whose identities are being protected for privacy reasons, were enticed with promises of legitimate employment — ranging from hospitality to domestic work. Once in Ghana, they were allegedly stripped of their autonomy and subjected to conditions that violated their human rights.
Such cases are becoming alarmingly frequent, especially as traffickers increasingly use trusted community members, friends, and even family to lure unsuspecting victims. These traffickers exploit economic hardship, unemployment, and the allure of a better life abroad to recruit young girls and women into forced labor and other forms of exploitation.
Commendation for Diaspora Support
Dabiri-Erewa applauded the role played by Chief Callistus Elozieuwa, Chairman of the NIDO Ghana Board of Trustees, for his consistent involvement in protecting vulnerable Nigerians.
“Chief Elozieuwa has remained a beacon of hope and action. His tireless efforts have helped secure the release of many Nigerians trapped abroad. We are grateful for his continued leadership and compassion,” she said.
The Nigerian Embassy in Accra also received praise for its proactive approach and swift coordination in supporting the victims and ensuring their safe return.
In addition, the NiDCOM chief extended special appreciation to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for playing a key role in facilitating the girls’ transportation back home.
“Her Excellency, the First Lady, has shown great commitment to protecting Nigerian women and children,” Dabiri-Erewa noted. “Her involvement sends a strong message that the welfare of every Nigerian, at home or abroad, matters.”
A Broader Crisis
This latest case adds to a worrying trend. NiDCOM revealed that over 169 Nigerians have been rescued from similar trafficking operations in Ghana in recent months. Many victims were deceived under similar false pretenses — including job offers, educational opportunities, and migration support — only to find themselves trapped in exploitative conditions.
“These traffickers are sophisticated,” said Dabiri-Erewa. “They prey on the dreams of young people, using manipulation and false promises. It’s time we put an end to their tactics and hold them accountable.”
According to NAPTIP, Nigeria remains a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking, with thousands of cases reported annually. While the agency continues to clamp down on traffickers and provide services for survivors, the root causes — including poverty, unemployment, and lack of awareness — remain persistent.
Reintegration and Counseling
Following their return, Divine, Favour, and Bright are now undergoing a series of support services under NAPTIP’s care. These include trauma counseling, health checks, educational support, and vocational training as part of their reintegration into society.
“These girls have endured unimaginable hardship,” said a NAPTIP official involved in their case. “Now, they need support, healing, and a new chance at life. We are committed to walking this journey with them.”
Public Vigilance Urged
NiDCOM and NAPTIP are urging families, schools, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in educating young people about the dangers of trafficking.
Suspicious recruitment offers, especially those involving foreign travel or jobs abroad, should be verified and reported. Hotlines and reporting platforms remain open for the public to share tips or seek help.
“Every Nigerian must play a role in ending this menace,” Dabiri-Erewa added. “Speak out. Ask questions. If something feels wrong, report it. You might be saving a life.”
