A total of 78 Nigerian girls trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire have been safely repatriated to Nigeria, arriving at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos in the early hours of Sunday, May 11, 2025.

According to reports, the victims — some of whom are pregnant were received by officials of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). The agency’s Director-General, Dr. Binta Bello, described the operation as a powerful demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to combating transnational human trafficking.

“These young women are not just victims; they are our daughters, and today marks their safe return and a reaffirmation of our unwavering resolve to end the scourge of human trafficking,” Bello stated.

She revealed that several suspects linked to the trafficking ring have already been arrested and assured the public that they will face prosecution. For operational and security reasons, further details were withheld, but she emphasized that NAPTIP is working closely with international allies to dismantle trafficking networks.

The return was made possible through collaboration between the Nigerian government, global partners, and the private sector with airline company Air Peace playing a key role by facilitating the repatriation at no cost.

Addressing the survivors, Bello praised their courage, saying, “Your survival is a beacon of hope for thousands still trapped in the shadows. You are home, and this country stands with you.”

She also highlighted the persistent threat of human trafficking, noting that hundreds of Nigerian women and girls continue to be trafficked annually under false pretenses to destinations across West Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.