The Kaduna State Government has issued a warning about an alarming rise in child trafficking, uncovering a fake orphanage in Abuja used by a syndicate to sell abducted children nationwide.
Authorities recently recovered 13 children who were victims of this illegal operation, the government has called for increased vigilance and cooperation from the public to help combat this growing issue,
At a press conference on Friday in Kaduna, the Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, disclosed: “The purpose we are out here today is to address growing concerns following reports of stolen children from parts of Kaduna State, including the metropolis, Zaria, and other local government areas.
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“Some of these children had their names changed from Hausa to different names, and many could no longer identify their original locations
While some of the children were rescued and handed over to social welfare authorities in Abuja, others were returned to Kaduna and placed under the state’s care for psychosocial counseling, medical attention, nutrition, and rehabilitation.
Salisu revealed that on March 24, 2025, 11 children were received by her ministry from the office of the State Commissioner of Police in Abuja.
Investigations revealed that five members of the abduction ring, including a woman believed to be the gang leader, were involved.
The woman reportedly used her fake orphanage as a temporary shelter before selling the children to buyers in the eastern part of the country.
“This is an alarming and evil act. The children found had been stripped of their identities and couldn’t recall their homes,” she added.
