Bauchi State Sees 70 Human Trafficking Cases, Three Convictions, NAPTIP

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has reported 70 cases of human trafficking in Bauchi State from January to October 2026. During this time, the agency achieved three convictions.

The agency also rescued 25 residents of Bauchi who were trafficked to North Africa. This information was shared by the state coordinator, Aliyun Kalli, on Tuesday at a two-day workshop. The workshop focused on the Bauchi State Youth Policy Development Framework and was organized by the state’s Sustainable Development Goals office in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Mr Kalli explained that many of the victims were young people who were tricked into leaving the country with false promises of better opportunities. He encouraged young people to participate in local skills training and other job opportunities instead of risking dangerous trips that could lead to trafficking and exploitation.

He stated that three convictions came from the 70 cases reported. Other cases are still pending in court. The coordinator did not give details about the convictions or how many cases have been charged in court.

Kalli mentioned that NAPTIP is working on profiling returnees and helping them reintegrate into their communities. He also pointed out that the agency is looking into local agents who are allegedly recruiting young girls from rural areas for exploitation in cities.

No further details were provided about these recruitment activities or if any arrests have been made as a result of the investigations. The coordinator shared that NAPTIP’s anti-trafficking work is based on five main areas: prevention, protection, prosecution, partnership, and policy.

He added that the agency has run awareness campaigns in over 50 communities, motor parks, and schools throughout Bauchi State in 2026. The campaigns also included radio and television programs, as well as outreach efforts aimed at women’s groups.

Mr Kalli urged young people to stay hopeful and engage in productive activities. He believes that ongoing government reforms will create more job opportunities for them within Nigeria.