The United States has criticised Nigeria for failing to meet minimum standards in combating human trafficking, citing corruption, official complicity and inadequate prosecution of complicit officials. The concerns were contained in the 2026 Trafficking in Persons Report, which retained Nigeria on Tier Two and listed the country among 14 nations affected by the recruitment and use of child soldiers. The report also raised concerns over baby factories, forced labour, sex trafficking and the exploitation of children by armed groups, including Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa. However, the US acknowledged Nigeria’s increased efforts, noting that authorities investigated 1,341 trafficking cases, prosecuted 94 suspects and secured 97 convictions in 2025. The report underscores the need for stronger law enforcement, greater accountability and sustained efforts to protect vulnerable persons and bring human traffickers to justice.