CurrentReport Blog The Katsina State Government has officially welcomed 13-year-old Rahama Sanusi, who was rescued from a suspected human trafficker by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in collaboration with the State Ministry of Women Affairs.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Child Protection
During Rahama’s reception, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Hadiza Yar’adua, emphasized the government’s dedication to fighting child trafficking and reducing the number of out-of-school children in Katsina. She reiterated the state’s ongoing collaboration with UNICEF, NAPTIP, and other agencies to safeguard vulnerable children.
Yar’adua also stressed the need for alternative care policies and programs tailored to the cultural, traditional, and religious context of the region.
Rahama’s Background and Rescue
Before her rescue, Rahama had been living in Kano State for seven years under the care of her late mother’s sister. However, reports indicate that her caregiver was unwilling to return her to her biological father.
Speaking on the incident, Yar’adua urged parents to take full responsibility for their children’s welfare instead of depending solely on extended family members.
“I am not suggesting that relatives should not help care for our children, but I urge parents, despite life’s challenges, to take a more active role in raising them,” she stated.
She also reassured the public that the Katsina State Government, alongside NAPTIP and the justice system, is working tirelessly to protect underage children from exploitation and harm.
Rahama’s Father Speaks Out
Rahama’s father, Sanusi Ahmed, expressed relief over his daughter’s return, revealing that he had been trying to bring her home long before the incident but was repeatedly denied access by her caregiver.
“I appeal to parents to never give up on their children, no matter how difficult life may be,” he urged.
Government’s Next Steps in Child Welfare
The Katsina State Government has vowed to continue strengthening child protection laws and increasing awarenessabout child trafficking and neglect.
With growing concerns over out-of-school children and child exploitation, authorities are calling for greater parental involvement and stronger policies to prevent similar cases in the future.
This rescue operation underscores the government’s zero-tolerance stance on human trafficking, with continued support from law enforcement agencies, NGOs, and local communities.
