Trends of Child Trafficking Situation in Nigeria and A Way Forward

Abstract

International and local policies/legislations exist on Child Trafficking. However, it remains a serious public health concern in many parts of the world particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. This paper explores the problem in Nigeria and proffers appropriate solution. It involves illegal recruitment and movement of children for the purpose of exploitation. Different factors predispose to trafficking in the country, mainly due to social, political or economic reasons. Of recent, the phenomenon of Baby factory becomes very common in some parts of the country, leading to young girls mobilized into the trafficking cycle and giving birth to children for sale in black markets. Trafficking occurs either locally within the country or internationally through various routes, across all the geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Various health implications associated with trafficking exist, these include physical, mental or sexual consequences, hence, the article outline existing legislations, barriers and ways of controlling the menace.

Keywords: Trends, Child, Trafficking, Situation, Nigeria.