Trafficking: AKH-TRACADA opens Ghana office, seeks partnership with NAPTIP

The Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA) says it has opened an operational office in Accra, Ghana, to combat rising cases of human trafficking involving Nigerian nationals.

Mr Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, AKH-TRACADA disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja

Ezeanyaeche explained that the decision to open the Accra office followed findings from a two-week fact-finding mission by the organisation to Ghana.

He said that the findings revealed several cases of trafficking, abuse and forced labour involving some Nigerian girls.

He said that the organisatio discovered that some of the victims, including underage girls and blind minors, were being held in inhumane conditions and forced into sexual activities.

”Our mission to Ghana has shown the urgent need for collaboration across borders to dismantle trafficking networks.

“We are ready to work with National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and all relevant agencies to rescue victims and prevent further exploitation.

“Between May and June 2025, AKH-TRACADA will launch sensitisation campaigns across Ghana through town halls, workshops, and stakeholder engagement, aimed at curbing trafficking and drug abuse.

“We are also currently working with eight Ghanaian partners and we are in touch with the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana regarding ongoing investigations and rescue logistics.

”AKH-TRACADA is closely monitoring four flashpoints, including a location where six blind Nigerian girls were reportedly being held and abused,” he said.

The AKH-TRACADA founder also revealed that a hotel in Accra was currently harbouring more than 80 under-age Nigerian girls who were trafficked through the sea and allegedly being forced into prostitution.

He said that the organisation was also aware of the case of a mentally challenged Nigerian girl who gave birth in Ghana and currently receiving treatment at one of the hospitals.

“The girl is eager to return to Nigeria to reunite with her family,” he said.

Ezeanyaeche, expressed concern over the increasing abuse of a substance known locally as “RED” reportedly being used by many trafficked youths, describing the substance as more dangerous than tramadol.

According to him, this is also one of the reasons we are seeking a strategic partnership with NAPTIP to facilitate intelligence sharing, sensitisation, rescue missions and public awareness campaigns.

“We urge NAPTIP to intensify rescue efforts, particularly for the six blind girls and the recently recovered young mother wishing to return home.

”This is not just a call to action; it is a call for collaboration. Together, we can dismantle these syndicates and offer hope and healing to the victims,” Ezeanyaeche added.

He further reaffirmed the organisation’s readiness to work as a strategic partner to government agencies and international stakeholders.

He also pledged the full cooperation of the organisation in the fight against human trafficking, child abuse, and drug-related crimes.

He commended the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana for its cooperation and ongoing investigations into the reported cases.