The Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian Society (CWEENS) , strongly commends the Plateau State Government and members of the Plateau State Task Force Committee on Human Trafficking for the coordinated overnight operation carried out across the Jos–Bukuru metropolis on December 31, 2025, which led to the rescue of dozens of minors from alleged sexual exploitation, drug abuse, and trafficking.
A statement signed by Professor Oluwafunmilayo Josephine Para Mallam MNI National Coordinator Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian Society reads that the rescue of children some as young as 11 years old including girls living with disabilities, a breastfeeding mother, and a pregnant young woman, is a sobering reminder of the depth of vulnerability faced by children in our society.
‘ Yhese are children who should have been in school, safe at home, and protected—not exposed to abuse and exploitation in unsafe environments.”
CWEENS acknowledges the collective efforts of the Ministry of Justice, NAPTIP, Nigeria Immigration Service, NACTAL, NDLEA, NSCDC, and the Nigeria Police Force, Plateau State Command, whose collaboration demonstrates the impact of coordinated, multi-agency action in addressing human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
We align with the position of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Plateau State, Hon. Barr. Philemon Audu Daffi, that this situation represents a painful indictment of society. Factors such as insecurity, economic hardship, broken homes, and weak child protection systems continue to push children into harm’s way. These realities demand urgent, sustained, and collective responses.
CWEENS further welcomes the firm stance taken against compromise and impunity, as well as the warning issued to hotels, lodges, and similar establishments that harbor underaged persons. Accountability across all sectors is critical to ending child exploitation.
While enforcement is essential, rescue must be followed by comprehensive rehabilitation. CWEENS calls on the Plateau State Government to ensure that all rescued children receive trauma-informed care, psychosocial support, access to education, and long-term reintegration services that prioritize their dignity and wellbeing.
This operation must not be a one-off event. It should mark the beginning of sustained action, consistent enforcement of child protection laws—including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act—and stronger community-based prevention mechanisms.
Protecting children is a shared responsibility. Families, communities, institutions, and government must work together to ensure that no child is left unprotected, unheard, or unseen.
CWEENS remains committed to advocating for child protection, justice, and the creation of safe spaces where every child can thrive.
