NAPTIP Commences Rehabilitation of Nigerian Woman Rescued from Iraqi Traffickers

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has begun a comprehensive rehabilitation program for Odunayo Isaac, one of the women rescued from a human trafficking syndicate in Iraq.

Binta Bello, the Director General of NAPTIP, announced that Isaac, who arrived in Nigeria on January 3, 2025, is undergoing medical and psychological assessments as part of the agency's efforts to help her recover from the trauma she endured.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by NAPTIP’s Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, the rehabilitation process is being handled by the agency’s Counselling and Rehabilitation Department alongside the Intelligence and International Cooperation Unit.

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Bello stated, “Given her level of exploitation and trauma, I have directed the relevant department and operatives to immediately begin profiling, interviews, and a comprehensive rehabilitation process. This will help us assess her medical condition, identify necessary assistance, provide skill development, and plan for her eventual reunion with her family.”

Isaac, a 28-year-old from Osun State, was rescued following the intervention of the Nigerian mission in Jordan, which oversees Iraq. She was received by NAPTIP operatives at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport after initial processing by Nigeria Immigration Service officials.

Viral Video Highlighted Isaac’s Plight
Isaac's ordeal gained widespread attention after a video clip surfaced last December in which she pleaded for help to return home.

She was reportedly lured to Iraq by one Alhaja Yusuf Shakira, also known as “Mama Uganda,” with promises of a better life. Instead, Isaac endured two years of severe mistreatment under her Iraqi employer, Saba Akram, and his wife.

NAPTIP, in collaboration with civil society organizations and international partners, facilitated her return from Baghdad after her situation was highlighted in media reports and her video went viral.

FAQs

• Who is Odunayo Isaac?

Odunayo Isaac is a 28-year-old Nigerian woman rescued from a human trafficking syndicate in Iraq.

• How did NAPTIP become involved in her case?

NAPTIP intervened after Isaac’s video pleading for help went viral in December, drawing national and international attention.

• What is the purpose of her rehabilitation?

The rehabilitation aims to address Isaac’s medical needs, provide psychological support, and equip her with skills to reintegrate into society.

• How was Isaac rescued?

The Nigerian mission in Jordan, which oversees Iraq, facilitated her rescue in collaboration with NAPTIP and other partners.

• What led to Isaac’s trafficking?

Isaac was reportedly deceived by Alhaja Yusuf Shakira, who promised her a better life in Iraq, but she ended up enduring years of exploitation and mistreatment.