Over 2,000 Trafficked Nigerian Girls Stranded in Mali, NAPTIP Uncovers Alarming Trafficking Trend to Edo State for Prostitution

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has revealed that it has information about over 2,000 trafficked Nigerian girls currently stranded in Mali. The Benin Zone Commander of NAPTIP, Nduka Nwanwene, disclosed that the agency has also gathered intelligence indicating that girls from Mali are being trafficked to Edo State for prostitution.

Speaking during the 2023 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons in Benin, Nwanwene highlighted the concerning situation and called for thorough investigations into the trafficking activities. He emphasized that Mali, which used to be a destination for girls trafficked from Nigeria, is now becoming the source, with Mali girls being trafficked into Benin City for prostitution.

Under the leadership of Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, NAPTIP has been making progress in convicting high-profile traffickers, providing evidence-based rehabilitation, and empowering survivors. Nwanwene called on all stakeholders to come together and support efforts to combat human trafficking and work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.