NIS warns Nigerians against fraudulent migration, human trafficking schemes

Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has warned Nigerians against rising cases of fraudulent migration schemes and irregular cross-border activities being carried out by criminal networks across the country.

In a public advisory issued on Monday, the service said vulnerable individuals, particularly young women and girls, were increasingly being targeted through deceptive offers of employment, education, sponsorship, and opportunities for a better life abroad.

According to the NIS, many of the schemes often result in forced labour, human trafficking, exploitation, and other forms of abuse.

The advisory, signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI AS Akinlabi, stressed that it is illegal to leave Nigeria without valid travel documents, including passports and visas.

The service warned that genuine travel processes do not bypass official immigration procedures or authorised border posts.

It also cautioned Nigerians against accepting unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel assistance, or promises of relocation abroad from unknown or unverified individuals.

“Be extremely cautious of unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel fare, or ‘help’ to go abroad from unknown or unverified persons,” the statement read.

The NIS urged members of the public to verify the authenticity of all travel and recruitment opportunities through appropriate government channels before taking any action.

The agency also advised Nigerians to avoid dealing with agents or individuals involved in promoting or facilitating irregular migration.

It further encouraged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities, movements, or persons linked to such schemes to the nearest Immigration office or other security agencies.

The service called on parents, guardians, religious leaders, and community leaders to educate young people about the dangers associated with irregular migration and human trafficking.

According to the NIS, public vigilance and awareness remain critical in combating exploitation and protecting vulnerable citizens from criminal syndicates.

The immigration service reaffirmed its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting citizens from exploitation and trafficking-related crimes.

The agency also provided its verified communication channels for complaints, inquiries, and whistleblowing related to suspicious migration activities.