NIS Intercepts 294 Nigerians Attempting to Leave Amid Rising Smuggling Concerns
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has stopped 294 Nigerians from leaving the country over suspected smuggling activities and denied entry to 332 undocumented migrants along the Seme border.
The Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, disclosed this on Tuesday, November 11, during a one-day stakeholders’ sensitization seminar in Abuja. The event, titled “Evolving Patterns in Smuggling of Migrants: Towards a Coordinated National Response,” focused on curbing the growing menace of irregular migration and human smuggling.
Rescue Operations and Surveillance Technology Strengthen Border Control
Speaking on the progress made in recent months, Nandap revealed that the Immigration Service had rescued 36 victims of human trafficking and child labour near the Seme border. She attributed the success to the installation of modern CCTV surveillance systems, which have enhanced the Service’s ability to monitor and intercept irregular migration activities.
“These are not annual statistics; they occurred within a short period, highlighting the scale of the problem we are dealing with,” she emphasized.
The ‘Japa’ Syndrome: A Growing National Concern
Nandap expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of irregular migration, especially among young Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad — a phenomenon popularly referred to as “Japa.”
“It is very disheartening when you see young people risking their lives because they feel the grass is greener on the other side,” she lamented.
The Immigration chief stressed that while the desire for improved living conditions is understandable, many of these journeys expose migrants to exploitation, trafficking, and even death.
Migrant Smuggling: A Sophisticated, Transnational Challenge
Highlighting the evolving nature of migration crimes, Nandap explained that migrant smuggling has become increasingly complex and transnational, driven by sophisticated criminal networks that prey on vulnerable individuals.
“These smugglers operate across borders with advanced tactics, making it a serious national and international concern,” she added.
NIS Strengthens Response Through Multi-Agency Collaboration
To combat the issue effectively, Nandap revealed that the NIS has adopted a multi-dimensional approach, working closely with local and international partners. This strategy includes:
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Strengthening legal and institutional frameworks to prosecute offenders.
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Expanding public awareness campaigns to educate potential migrants on the dangers of irregular travel.
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Enhancing inter-agency cooperation to ensure a unified and coordinated national response.
She reiterated the Service’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s borders, ensuring safe and lawful migration, and supporting victims of human trafficking through rehabilitation and reintegration programs.
Conclusion
As Nigeria grapples with the growing “Japa” wave, the Nigeria Immigration Service continues to tighten border surveillance and advocate for safer migration practices. Nandap’s call to action highlights the urgent need for collective efforts from government agencies, communities, and families to discourage irregular migration and protect the nation’s youth from falling prey to human smugglers.
