The Federal Government has received 105 Nigerians rescued during an operation targeting cybercrime syndicates in Ghana, with authorities beginning procedures to assess their circumstances and provide the necessary support.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) disclosed the development in a statement issued on Monday and signed by its Head of Press and Public Relations, Vincent Adekoye.
According to the agency, Ghanaian authorities rescued 119 Nigerians during the operation, while 105 have so far been repatriated to Nigeria. Efforts are ongoing to return the remaining 14.
The operation was coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) following information received from Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority.
NAPTIP led the Nigerian security and law enforcement agencies involved in the exercise, working alongside other government institutions and international partners.
Receiving the returnees on behalf of the Federal Government, NAPTIP Director-General Binta Lami Adamu Bello welcomed them and assured them of the government’s commitment to their safety.
She urged the returnees to remain calm as officials commenced profiling and reintegration procedures.
The agency explained that the process would enable authorities to establish the individual circumstances of the returnees and determine the protection, assistance and other forms of support they may require.
The exercise is expected to help officials identify the appropriate interventions for the Nigerians following their return from Ghana.
Security Agencies, International Partners Commended
NAPTIP praised the Ghanaian authorities for their role in the operation, particularly the Cyber Security Authority of Ghana and the Ghana Immigration Service.
Other Nigerian institutions involved included the Nigeria Immigration Service, Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency and National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons.
The Nigerian High Commission in Ghana and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria also participated in the operation.
The agency further acknowledged the contributions of the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency, ONSA and other security and international partners.
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NAPTIP said continued cooperation between Nigerian and foreign authorities remained important in tackling human trafficking and related forms of exploitation.
NAPTIP Warns Nigerians Against Suspicious Overseas Offers
The agency also advised Nigerians to exercise caution when considering employment and other opportunities abroad, particularly offers that appear unusually attractive or lack clear details.
It warned against opportunities promising unrealistic benefits, providing vague job descriptions or involving questionable recruitment arrangements.
NAPTIP reiterated its commitment to working with relevant local and international partners to combat trafficking and protect Nigerians from exploitation.