NIS Raises Alarm Over Fake Travel Schemes, Warns Nigerians Against Illegal Migration

The Nigeria Immigration Service has warned Nigerians against falling victim to fraudulent migration schemes and illegal cross-border movements, saying criminal networks are increasingly exploiting vulnerable citizens with fake promises of jobs, education, and better opportunities abroad.

The agency said many of the victims, especially young women, often end up trapped in human trafficking, forced labour, and other dangerous forms of exploitation after being deceived by traffickers posing as travel sponsors or recruitment agents.

In a statement released in Abuja on Monday, the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, stressed that leaving Nigeria without valid travel documents is a criminal offence and exposes individuals to serious risks.

“It is illegal to leave Nigeria without a valid passport, visa, and other required documents, and doing so poses serious dangers,” the statement said.

The NIS explained that legitimate travel processes do not bypass immigration procedures or authorised border routes, warning Nigerians to be suspicious of anyone offering shortcuts or secret routes out of the country.

According to the agency, trafficking syndicates often lure victims with offers to cover travel expenses, secure jobs abroad, or arrange overseas education opportunities, only for the victims to later face abuse, exploitation, or detention in foreign countries.

The immigration service urged members of the public to verify all travel and recruitment opportunities through appropriate government agencies before making commitments or payments.

It also advised Nigerians to avoid dealing with unverified travel agents or individuals encouraging irregular migration through illegal border crossings.

The agency further appealed to parents, guardians, and community leaders to educate young people about the dangers linked to human trafficking and undocumented migration, especially as economic hardship continues to push many youths to seek opportunities abroad.

To strengthen public awareness and intelligence gathering, the NIS encouraged Nigerians to report suspicious activities, movements, or persons linked to trafficking and illegal migration to the nearest immigration office or security agency.

The service said complaints and reports can also be made through its official social media handles under the username “@nigimmigration,” as well as dedicated contact centre numbers, WhatsApp lines, and whistleblower email channels.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains resolute in its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting citizens from exploitation,” the statement added.

The latest warning comes amid growing concerns over rising cases of human trafficking and dangerous migration routes involving Nigerians attempting to leave the country through irregular channels.