The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has made significant strides in combating child trafficking, successfully dismantling a network that has been operating across multiple states. In a recent operation led by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’s SIS), 15 minors were rescued, and three suspected buyers were arrested. This operation is part of the NSCDC's broader commitment to tackling crime and protecting vulnerable citizens.
According to a statement from the NSCDC’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, the operation was initiated following a petition regarding missing children in the Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. This led to an investigation that uncovered a suspected trafficking syndicate allegedly headed by one Anderson Archibong. Archibong is reported to have posed as an official of a non-governmental organization, misleading low-income parents under the guise of a “Back to School Project” through an entity named the National Council of Child Rights Advocate.
The investigation revealed that Archibong had taken 16 children in January 2026, selling them to buyers across the country for ₦2 million each. Through intelligence-led operations along various transit routes, the NSCDC was able to rescue 15 of these children in Anambra, Imo, Enugu, and other eastern states. The three arrested suspects, identified as Joy Julius, Ngozi, and Eze Lazarus, have reportedly confessed to their involvement in the trafficking operation, providing critical information that could lead to further arrests.
Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining child and apprehend other members of the trafficking syndicate. The NSCDC has emphasized its commitment to protecting children and ensuring that those involved in such heinous crimes are brought to justice.
In a separate but related operation, the CG’s SIS uncovered a scheme involving the illegal sale of NSCDC firearms. This investigation was prompted by the disappearance of an AK-47 rifle from the NSCDC National Headquarters. The investigation led to the arrest of CAII Igah Ameh James, a serving officer who allegedly stole the rifle and sold it for ₦700,000. The weapon was subsequently recovered, along with two empty magazines.
Further investigations into the NSCDC’s armory revealed that ASCI Peter Ardo, a former Head of Armoury, and CCA Boniface B. Lawyer were involved in the illegal diversion of two unserviceable G3 service rifles. These rifles were allegedly sold to a civilian, with Ardo accused of manipulating inventory records to conceal the diversion. Both suspects are now in custody following their confessions.
The NSCDC has also been active in addressing the vandalism and theft of telecommunications infrastructure. In Delta State, operatives arrested Henry Dennis while he was in possession of 12 vandalized telecommunications panels. Investigations revealed a wider network involving a scrap market owner, Yusuf Musa, who allegedly financed the theft operations and resold the stolen components. Financial tracing has uncovered suspicious transactions linked to digital payment platforms, with efforts underway to apprehend other members of this syndicate.
Commending the CG’s SIS for their tactical coordination and operational efficiency, NSCDC Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi reiterated the Corps' commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens and securing critical national infrastructure. He also confirmed that internal administrative and disciplinary proceedings against implicated personnel have been concluded, and the Directorate of Legal Services has been directed to commence prosecution against the arrested suspects in competent courts.
The recent operations by the NSCDC serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against child trafficking and other forms of crime in Nigeria. As the nation grapples with various security challenges, the NSCDC's proactive measures highlight the importance of safeguarding the rights and welfare of children, ensuring that those who exploit them face the full weight of the law. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may indicate child trafficking or other criminal activities, as community involvement is crucial in the fight against such crimes.