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The Ebonyi State Government has begun arrangements to repatriate, rehabilitate and reintegrate indigenous children rescued during a recent anti-child exploitation operation in Anambra State.
The action follows the circulation of a viral video showing the exploitation of the children, prompting intervention by the governments of both states.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Felicia Nwamkpuma, disclosed the development in a statement issued in Abakaliki.
She said the ministry acted immediately after receiving official notification from her Anambra State counterpart, Chinyere Esther Onyekesi.
According to Nwamkpuma, the rescue operation took place in the Otolo area of Nnewi North Local Government Area, where the Ebonyi children were identified among those rescued.
She said the intervention is being carried out in collaboration with the wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Uzoamaka Mary-Maudline Nwifuru.
“This swift intervention reflects the commitment of the Ebonyi State Government to protecting the rights, dignity and future of every woman, child and vulnerable person in the state,” she said.
Beyond facilitating their safe return, the commissioner said the state government will provide comprehensive rehabilitation, enrol the children in relevant skills acquisition programmes and reunite them with their families.
Nwamkpuma reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy on child trafficking, child labour, exploitation, sexual abuse and all forms of gender-based violence.
She said the intervention aligns with Governor Francis Nwifuru’s People’s Charter of Needs agenda, which places the protection of women and children at the centre of governance.
The commissioner added that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development remains committed to strengthening social protection, child welfare and human capital development across the state.
She also urged residents to support the government’s efforts by reporting cases of child trafficking, abuse and exploitation to the appropriate authorities.
“Together, we can build a safer and more secure Ebonyi State for everyone,” she said.
