Nigerian women rescued from human trafficking ring in Ghana

The latest operation, part of a series of anti-trafficking efforts carried out since July 2024, brings the total number of Nigerian women rescued from Ghana to 130. according to in NiDKOM. Spokesman Abdur-Rahman Balogun said the women, aged 18 to 29, were promised jobs but instead faced exploitation and were reportedly bound to secrecy.

In related security force actions recently saved nine victims of human trafficking in two separate operations. Over the past two decades, NiDCOM has helped repatriate more than 21,000 victims of human trafficking.

Despite ongoing efforts, the Trafficking in Persons Report 2024 highlights challenges in Nigeria’s anti-trafficking initiatives. The report notes that while 409 cases were investigated and 36 traffickers were convicted last year, stronger training for judges is needed to improve case outcomes.

Nigeria is the leading country of origin for trafficking victims identified in Africa, Europe and beyond. Globally, challenges continue, with 10,572 criminal cases of human trafficking reported and 90,354 victims identified in 2021—figures that only represent a fraction of those affected. according to according to the US State Department’s 2022 report.

In March, NiDCOM highlighted tactics used by traffickers who use brand logos and fake job offers in the oil and gas industry to lure young people into exploitation in West Africa.