Ukorebi Esien | July 30, 2026
ABUJA—The Child Protection Network (CPN) Nigeria has disclosed that it has reunited over 350 trafficked and vulnerable children with their families across the country since September 2022, even as it pledged to intensify efforts to combat child trafficking and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.
The National Coordinator of CPN Nigeria, Mr. Olakunle Sanni, made the disclosure in a statement on Thursday to mark the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
He described child trafficking as one of the gravest violations of children's rights, saying the crime strips children of their freedom, dignity, education, safety and future.
Sanni paid tribute to members of the Child Protection Network nationwide for what he described as their courage, selfless sacrifice and unwavering commitment to protecting children from trafficking, exploitation, abuse and other forms of violence.
According to him, the over 350 family tracing and reunification exercises carried out by the network were made possible through the collaboration of CPN members across the federation and the support of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
"I am particularly proud that since assuming office as National Coordinator in September 2022, CPN Nigeria, with the bold cooperation of CPN members and invaluable support of the International Organization for Migration, has successfully conducted over 350 family tracing and reunification exercises for trafficked and vulnerable children across different states of the federation," he said.
Sanni noted that every successful reunification represented a child restored to safety, a family brought back together and hope renewed for victims of trafficking.
"Behind every successful tracing exercise is a child restored to safety, a family reunited and hope rekindled. This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication and compassion of our members nationwide," he added.
While acknowledging the progress made, the CPN National Coordinator stressed that child trafficking remains a major challenge requiring sustained action by government, development partners, civil society organisations, communities and citizens.
He reaffirmed the network's commitment to strengthening prevention efforts, supporting survivors, empowering communities and deepening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to curb trafficking in persons, particularly children.
He also vowed that CPN would continue to advocate for the arrest, prosecution and conviction of traffickers to deter the growing menace.
Calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant, Sanni urged members of the public to report suspected cases of child trafficking to the Child Protection Network or the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, through their designated emergency lines.
He emphasized that protecting children is a collective responsibility, urging communities, parents, traditional institutions, religious leaders and security agencies to work together to prevent children from falling victim to traffickers.
"Together, we can end child trafficking. Together, we can protect every child. Together, we can build a safer Nigeria for generations to come," he stated.
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