The Ebonyi State Government has commenced arrangements to repatriate, rehabilitate and reintegrate indigenous children rescued during a recent anti-child exploitation operation in Anambra State.

The move follows the circulation of a viral video showing the exploitation of the children, which prompted immediate action by the governments of both states.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Felicia Nwamkpuma, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Abakaliki.

According to the commissioner, the ministry acted immediately after receiving official notification from her Anambra State counterpart, Mrs. Chinyere Esther Onyekesi.

She said the rescue operation was carried out in the Otolo area of Nnewi North Local Government Area, where the Ebonyi children were identified among those rescued.

Nwamkpuma noted that the intervention is being carried out in close collaboration with the wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs. 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 would provide comprehensive rehabilitation, enroll the children in relevant skills acquisition programmes, and reunite them safely with their families.

She reaffirmed the administration’s zero-tolerance policy on child trafficking, child labour, exploitation, sexual abuse and all forms of gender-based violence.

Nwamkpuma said the intervention aligns with the people-centred approach of Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration, noting that the protection of women and children remains a core pillar of the government’s People’s Charter of Needs agenda.

She added that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development remains committed to investing in social protection, child welfare and human capital development to ensure a safe environment for every child in the state.

The commissioner also appealed to members of the public to support the government’s efforts by promptly 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. (Channels TV)