FCTA Reseals Orphanage Over Illegal Operation, Alleged Child Trafficking

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has resealed Divine Hope Orphanage and Less Privileged Home in Kagini, Kubwa, Abuja, after officials found that the facility had resumed operations without authorization amid an investigation into alleged child trafficking and welfare violations.

The orphanage had initially been sealed in January 2026 after the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat received information from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) concerning children allegedly brought from Benue to Abuja and admitted into the facility without the required referral from the FCT authorities.

According to Idris Attah, Director of Child Development at the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, officials discovered that the facility had reopened despite not receiving authorization to resume operations. During the latest inspection, authorities found 16 children and three nannies at the premises.

The children were subsequently evacuated from the facility and moved to a safe location under the care and supervision of the FCT Administration, authorities said.

The development has renewed concerns about the regulation and monitoring of orphanages and children’s homes in Abuja, particularly facilities operating outside established child-protection procedures.

The operator, Grace Chubuzor, reportedly claimed that she had received a licence to operate the home. She acknowledged, however, that the FCT Administration was not aware of children she had brought from Benue, describing the situation as a mistake. She said the children had been brought to the facility by a man who claimed to be working with the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat.

Child protection experts say orphanages and residential care facilities must be subject to strict oversight to prevent the exploitation, illegal movement and unauthorized adoption of children. They emphasize that proper documentation, referral procedures, background checks and regular inspections are essential safeguards.

The FCTA’s action also highlights the importance of collaboration between state authorities, law enforcement agencies and NAPTIP in investigating suspected trafficking networks and protecting vulnerable children.

Authorities said investigations into the facility and the circumstances surrounding the children’s admission remain ongoing. The resealing is intended to prevent further unauthorized operations while the relevant agencies establish the facts and determine any further legal action.