Rescue and Recertify: FCTA Takes Action Against Trafficking, Shuts Orphanage
In a decisive move on Monday, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) took action by sealing the Priesthood Orphanage in Karon Majigi village, Abuja, following the rescue of 23 children aged one to 14. Shockingly, these children were allegedly trafficked from Plateau.
The revelation unfolded as Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary of the Women Affairs Secretariat, FCTA, disclosed the rescue and handed over the children to Mrs. Caroline Dafur, the Commissioner for Women Affairs in Plateau, in Abuja.
Benjamins-Laniyi highlighted that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had authorized the secretariat to thoroughly profile and recertify all orphanages within the territory. Using this incident as a catalyst, she announced a comprehensive reevaluation of orphanage homes in Abuja.
“The Minister has approved a full, thorough reprofiling and recertification of anything related to orphanages in Abuja,” she declared.
The mandate secretary emphasized the ongoing collaboration with Dafur to reunite the children with their families, revealing that some had been in the uncertified orphanage since 2019.
This proactive stance by the FCTA aims to address the pressing issue of child trafficking and uncertified orphanages, ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children within the territory. The commitment to reevaluate orphanages reflects a dedication to upholding standards and safeguarding the rights of children.