Child Trafficking in Nigeria: How Poverty, Deception and Weak Protection Systems Fuel It

Child trafficking remains a serious form of organised exploitation in Nigeria. It is not limited to children taken across borders. Many are moved within the country and forced into domestic servitude, street trading, begging, labour or sexual exploitation. Traffickers often rely on deception rather than abduction. Families may be promised education, employment, accommodation or a better future for their children. Vulnerable children can also be exploited through illegal adoptions, fraudulent orphanages, maternity homes and so-called baby factories. Poverty, weak child-protection systems, harmful social norms and conflict can make families easier targets. Digital platforms have also created new risks, allowing predators to approach or manipulate children online. Nigeria must focus on prevention as well as arrests. Trafficking networks, document fraud, buyers and other enablers must be exposed, while survivors need protection, support and reintegration.

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