Child rights group raises concern over illegal adoption, trafficking

The Child Protection Network Nigeria has reported receiving 36 cases of child abuse within a few months, encompassing physical abuse, neglect, child trafficking, sexual abuse, and illegal adoption. National Coordinator Olakunle Sanni addressed this concerning issue at a press briefing in Abuja, emphasizing the urgent need for national action to protect vulnerable children.

Sanni highlighted the broader challenges children face, including sexual abuse, trafficking, abduction, physical violence, neglect, poverty, homelessness, hunger, exclusion from education, and inadequate healthcare. While acknowledging government efforts in various sectors, he stressed that millions of children remain exposed to serious risks.

Sanni warned that sexual abuse is a particularly disturbing violation, occurring in various settings where children should be safe. He called for stronger enforcement of child-protection laws, expedited investigations and prosecutions of offenders, and increased support for survivors. Sanni condemned physical abuse and urged positive, non-violent discipline methods.

He also addressed child trafficking, which includes domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, forced labor, street begging, illegal recruitment, and exploitative family placements. He urged the government to strengthen border protection, family tracing, documentation, public awareness, and reintegration programs. Sanni identified child abduction, especially from schools and conflict-affected areas, as a significant threat and called for stronger intelligence gathering, early-warning systems, community involvement, rapid response, and improved security around schools.

Regarding child adoption, Sanni expressed concern over its alleged misuse as a means for trafficking and exploitation. He cited the recent sealing of two orphanages in Abuja for alleged illegal operations and child trafficking. Sanni urged all parties in the legal case to prioritize the child's safety and best interests, emphasizing that the child should not become a battlefield in the legal proceedings.