NAPTIP Kano: 9 Human Trafficking Convictions Secured, Traffickers Jailed

• Over 70,600 Nigerians have been assisted by the IOM to return from irregular migration journeys since 2017, with more than 44,500 receiving reintegration support.
• NAPTIP's Kano Zonal Command has secured nine human trafficking convictions from 154 complaints received since January 2026, with some sentences ranging from six to seven years.
• Kano is identified as a significant transit point for trafficking networks due to its geographical location and proximity to international borders.
• The IOM advises prospective migrants to use regular, documented channels and understand destination country requirements to avoid exploitation and legal risks.
• Officials emphasize the critical role of public awareness and media engagement in combating irregular migration and human trafficking, especially in regions like Kano.

The NAPTIP Kano Zonal Command has reported a notable increase in enforcement activities, securing nine NAPTIP Kano human trafficking convictions from January 2026 to date.

Nigerian authorities and international partners are stepping up efforts to combat human trafficking and irregular migration, with recent data highlighting both the scale of the challenge and the impact of enforcement actions. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has revealed that over 70,600 Nigerians have been repatriated since 2017 after embarking on irregular journeys. Concurrently, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in Kano has secured significant convictions, underscoring a concerted push against exploitation.

These developments were brought to light during a two-day co-creation workshop held in Kano on September 21 and 22, 2026, which gathered media practitioners and On-Air Personalities. The event served as a platform for officials from both IOM and NAPTIP to share critical updates and emphasize the importance of public awareness in preventing further exploitation. The focus remains on safeguarding vulnerable individuals and ensuring that migration occurs through legal and documented channels.

The NAPTIP Kano Zonal Command has reported a notable increase in enforcement activities, securing nine NAPTIP Kano human trafficking convictions from January 2026 to date. These successful prosecutions have resulted in some convicted individuals receiving prison sentences ranging from six to seven years, reflecting the severity with which these crimes are being addressed. The command's Head of Public Enlightenment Unit, Umar Muhammad, confirmed that NAPTIP Kano received a total of 154 complaints during this period, encompassing human trafficking, child labour, child abuse, and various other forms of exploitation.

Muhammad further elaborated that numerous other cases remain under active investigation and prosecution, particularly those involving child abuse and Kano child labour exploitation cases, which often necessitate extensive and prolonged investigative processes. He identified Kano as a crucial transit point for trafficking networks, attributing this to its strategic geographical location and its proximity to both neighboring Nigerian states and international borders. This makes the region a focal point for Nigeria human trafficking enforcement efforts.

The IOM has played a pivotal role in assisting Nigerians caught in the web of irregular migration, with IOM Nigeria migrant returns statistics showing that more than 70,600 individuals have been helped to return to the country since 2017. Beyond repatriation, the organization has provided reintegration assistance to over 44,500 returnees, with additional individuals still undergoing this crucial process. Elijah Alaigwu, IOM Nigeria Communication Officer, highlighted the organization's ongoing collaboration with the Nigerian government and key partners, including the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) and NAPTIP, to support those affected by irregular migration.

While affirming that IOM does not oppose Nigerians traveling abroad, Alaigwu strongly advised prospective migrants to utilize regular and documented channels. This approach is crucial to circumvent the significant irregular migration Nigeria legal risks and avoid exploitation by unscrupulous smugglers and traffickers. He stressed the importance of thoroughly checking documentation, ensuring all relevant papers are in order, and understanding the conditions and requirements of destination countries, rather than relying on illicit networks.

The prevalence of young people in Kano embarking on perilous irregular journeys through borders underscores the critical need for enhanced public awareness and access to accurate information. This educational drive is seen as essential in preventing exploitation and guiding individuals toward safer, legal migration pathways. The IOM official, Elijah Alaigwu, specifically called for greater media involvement in tackling both irregular migration and human trafficking.

Journalists and media organizations are recognized as indispensable partners in this fight, playing a vital role in countering misinformation and educating prospective migrants about the dangers and legal alternatives. By disseminating accurate information and highlighting the risks associated with irregular travel, the media can significantly contribute to protecting vulnerable populations from falling victim to trafficking and exploitation.

Source: Original reporting via Daily Trust