******”NIDO AFRICA RESCUES 12-YEAR-OLD NIGERIAN GIRL FROM TRAFFICKERS IN CÔTE D’IVOIRE
*****As 12-Year-Old Nigerian Child safely returned to Nigeria.
*****Osakwe Commends The Collaborative efforts of NIDO Africa, Nigerian Embassy, NIDCOM
LAGOS, Nigeria — NIDO Africa has successfully facilitated the rescue and repatriation of a 12-year-old Nigerian girl who was trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) under false pretences. The child’s parents had been deceived into believing their daughter was being taken to Canada to work in a restaurant, but she was instead transported to and exploited in Côte d’Ivoire.
Royal Paradise Media (News Online) learnt this from Professor Jude Osakwe on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Chairman of NIDO Africa who was personally involved in the rescue operation, expressed deep appreciation for all parties whose swift action made the mission possible.
“Alhaja Fatimo Omotayo Balabola, Women Leader of NIDO Côte d’Ivoire, played a critical and tireless role throughout the entire rescue. We also commend Mr. Femi Ajayi, who cared for the child while preparations were being made for her return to Nigeria”, Prof. Jude Osakwe, Chairman, NIDO Africa stated.
Prof. Osakwe also extended special commendation to the Nigerian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire for providing essential diplomatic support that enabled the child to travel back to Nigeria, and to the Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for her continued support anytime she is called upon.
In addition to the rescue, Prof. Osakwe used the opportunity to call on the Nigerian National Assembly to enact legislation specifically targeting adults, including parents and guardians, who knowingly or negligently hand over underage children to strangers in the name of seeking better opportunities abroad.
“We must hold adults accountable. Children are being handed over under the guise of greener pastures. The law must protect them”, NIDO Africa Chairman added.