The Nigerian Navy has handed over two rescued victims of suspected human trafficking to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), reinforcing efforts to combat human trafficking and provide support for survivors.
The handover was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry at NAPTIP’s Lagos Zonal Command in Ikeja following the successful rescue of the victims during a targeted anti-human trafficking operation.
In a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Navy said the victims were first taken to the Western Naval Command Maritime Crime Investigation Desk, where they underwent documentation, biometric registration and other administrative procedures in line with established protocols before being transferred to NAPTIP.
According to Folorunsho, the transfer was conducted in compliance with the Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures for handling victims of human trafficking, ensuring that the rescued individuals receive adequate rehabilitation, protection and further support.
He noted that the successful operation highlights the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and preventing Nigeria’s maritime and territorial corridors from being exploited by transnational criminal networks.
“The successful rescue and seamless handover underscore the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime and territorial corridors from transnational organised crime while ensuring the protection and dignity of vulnerable persons,” he said.
Folorunsho added that the operation reflects the Navy’s continued collaboration with relevant government agencies in dismantling human trafficking networks and strengthening national security.
The Navy reaffirmed its resolve to sustain intelligence-driven operations and deepen inter-agency cooperation aimed at preventing human trafficking, disrupting criminal syndicates and promoting a safer maritime environment.
Stakeholders say closer collaboration among security agencies remains crucial to combating human trafficking, which continues to pose significant social and security challenges across the country.
