NAPTIP Warns Parents, Guardians Against Child S3xual Exploitation, Vows Strict Prosecution

NAPTIP Warns Parents, Guardians Against Child S3xual Exploitation, Vows Strict Prosecution

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has warned parents and guardians against facilitating the sexual exploitation of children for financial gain, pledging strict prosecution of anyone found culpable.

The Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu Bello, OON, raised the alarm in Abuja on Friday, October 16, 2026, expressing concern over reports of parents and guardians allegedly giving their children or wards to adults for sexual exploitation in exchange for money or other benefits.

She described the practice as a grave violation of children’s rights, warning that it could have devastating consequences for victims’ physical health, psychological well-being and future prospects.

Bello spoke following the arrest in Abuja of a middle-aged woman, whose identity was withheld, over allegations that she offered her teenage daughter to men for sexual gratification in exchange for money.

The NAPTIP chief described the alleged act as an extreme form of cruelty against a child, stressing that those responsible would face the full weight of the law if found guilty.

“I am personally disturbed as a mother and as the Director-General of NAPTIP, by the reported cases of some parents aiding and abetting the sexual abuse of their children for monetary benefits,” she said.

She added that reports received at the agency’s headquarters and commands across the country suggested that the practice was becoming increasingly concerning.

Bello lamented that children were sometimes betrayed by the very people entrusted with their protection, noting that parents and guardians have a fundamental responsibility to safeguard their children from abuse and exploitation.

In response to the reported incidents, she said the agency had strengthened its monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, while deepening collaboration with relevant partners and other law enforcement agencies to ensure prompt investigation and prosecution of suspected offenders.

The Director-General recalled that she had earlier directed NAPTIP commands nationwide to intensify surveillance, improve rapid-response mechanisms and ensure effective prosecution of cases involving child abuse and sexual assault.

She maintained that no excuse could justify the sexual exploitation of children and assured the public that the agency would pursue cases within its mandate without sparing anyone found culpable.

Bello also urged parents to exercise greater caution when engaging domestic workers, drivers, gardeners, school-run operators and other service providers who have access to their children.

She advised families to conduct proper background checks and carefully assess individuals entrusted with their children’s care, warning that abuse could be perpetrated by people familiar to the victims.

The agency reiterated the importance of vigilance, timely reporting and cooperation with law enforcement authorities in preventing child sexual abuse and ensuring that suspected perpetrators are brought to justice.

NAPTIP Warns Parents, Guardians Against Child S3xual Exploitation, Vows Strict Prosecution