By Chinedum Treasure
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has blamed poor public awareness for the growing cases of baby factories and human trafficking in Imo State.
State Commander, Mr. Toochukwu Ezejiegu, said many families fall victim to traffickers due to ignorance and false promises, making children vulnerable to exploitation through illegal orphanages, fake adoption schemes, and fraudulent job or travel offers.
He described baby factory operations as a major challenge, noting that Imo serves as a source state where victims are recruited before being moved to other parts of Nigeria and abroad.
Ezejiegu said NAPTIP has intensified awareness campaigns in communities and schools while partnering with the Imo State Government to establish a task force on human trafficking.
He also appealed for increased government support, citing inadequate funding, lack of operational vehicles, and poor office accommodation as challenges affecting the agency’s work.
Tags: NAPTIP, Imo, Human Trafficking, Baby Factories
