The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a warning about the increase in fraudulent migration schemes and irregular cross-border activities being carried out by individuals and criminal syndicates throughout the country, advising Nigerians that leaving the country illegally without valid travel documents is illegal and carries severe personal consequences.
The service said in a statement issued today in Abuja and signed by its Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, that criminal networks have been exploiting vulnerable persons, especially young women, with fake offers of jobs, education and prospects of better life abroad, schemes which often end up in forced labour, human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.
“Travel out of Nigeria without valid passport, visa and other necessary documents is an offence and carries grave risks, the service said, adding that no authentic travel process bypasses official immigration procedures or recognised border posts.
The NIS has urged the public to be very wary of unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel fare or so-called “help” to move overseas from unknown or unverified sources, a signature practice of trafficking networks.
The public was urged to confirm the authenticity of all travel opportunities and recruitment offers with appropriate government agencies, avoid persons or agents promoting irregular migration and report suspicious activities, movement or persons involved in such schemes to the nearest NIS formation or other security agency for immediate action.
The organization appealed to parents, guardians and community leaders to be vigilant and to educate young people about the dangers of irregular migration and trafficking in persons.
Members of the public who want clarifications or wish to report suspicious actions can reach out to the NIS using its official handles on X, Instagram and Facebook, all @nigimmigration or by calling its 24/7 contact centre numbers: 09121900655, 09121556359 and 09121477092. There are additional WhatsApp lines 0916087800, 09117717772 and a whistleblower email at nis.actu@immigration.gov.ng.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to securing Nigeria borders and protecting citizens from exploitation,” the statement stated.
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