The Nigeria Immigration Service has raised concerns over what it described as a growing wave of fraudulent migration schemes and irregular cross-border activities being carried out by criminal groups and individuals across the country.
The agency warned Nigerians that travelling out of the country without valid travel documents is unlawful and exposes individuals to serious risks, including exploitation and human trafficking.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja and signed by Akinsola Akinlabi.
According to the NIS, organised criminal networks have increasingly targeted vulnerable Nigerians, particularly young women, through deceptive promises of employment opportunities, educational placements, sponsorship packages, and the prospect of better living conditions abroad.
The immigration service stated that many of these schemes often end in forced labour, trafficking, exploitation, and other dangerous situations for victims.
“It is illegal to leave Nigeria without a valid passport, visa, and other required documents, and doing so poses serious dangers,” the statement noted.
The agency further stressed that no legitimate international travel arrangement bypasses official immigration procedures or authorised border entry and exit points.
The NIS cautioned Nigerians to be extremely careful about unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel funding, or assistance from unknown or unverified individuals, describing such tactics as common methods used by trafficking syndicates and irregular migration agents.
Members of the public were advised to verify the authenticity of all overseas opportunities, recruitment offers, and migration arrangements through appropriate government institutions and official channels before taking action.
The service also urged Nigerians to avoid dealing with individuals or travel agents promoting illegal migration routes or undocumented travel processes.
In addition, the agency encouraged citizens to promptly report suspicious movements, activities, or persons linked to trafficking and irregular migration schemes to the nearest immigration office or security agency.
The NIS appealed to parents, guardians, religious leaders, and community leaders to remain vigilant and actively sensitise young people about the dangers associated with irregular migration and trafficking in persons.
According to the statement, members of the public seeking further clarification or wishing to report suspicious migration-related activities can contact the NIS through its official social media platforms on X, Instagram, and Facebook under the handle @nigimmigration.
The service also provided 24-hour contact centre numbers, including 09121900655, 09121556359, and 09121477092, as well as WhatsApp lines 0916087800 and 09117717772.
A whistleblower email address, [email protected], was equally made available for confidential reports and complaints.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains resolute in its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting citizens from exploitation,” the statement added.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security measures and combating criminal activities linked to human trafficking and illegal migration across Nigeria.
