Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a public alert warning Nigerians against attempting to leave the country without valid travel documents or falling for fraudulent job schemes abroad, stressing that such actions are illegal and expose individuals to serious dangers, including forced labour, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday, May 25, 2026, by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI A.S. Akinlabi, in Abuja. According to the statement, which was also posted on the NIS's verified X handle, all international travel must be carried out with a valid passport, visa (where required), and other approved immigration documents, and any attempt to bypass official procedures or use unauthorised border routes constitutes a violation of Nigerian law.
The NIS also raised concern over the growing use of fraudulent migration schemes, where criminal networks lure unsuspecting citizens, particularly young people, with false promises of employment, education, or better living conditions abroad. The agency warned that such schemes often result in forced labour, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation, adding that no legitimate travel process bypasses established immigration procedures or official border posts. The NIS urged Nigerians to verify all travel and recruitment offers through official channels and to avoid dealing with unregistered agents or individuals promoting irregular migration. The service also warned the public to be extremely cautious of unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel fare, or so-called "help" to go abroad from unknown or unverified persons, describing such tactics as a hallmark of trafficking networks.
Members of the public were advised to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest Immigration Service formation or other relevant security agencies. The NIS also appealed to parents, guardians, and community leaders to intensify efforts at educating young people on the dangers of irregular migration and trafficking in persons. For enquiries or to report suspicious activities, the NIS advised the public to contact the agency through its verified social media platforms on X, Instagram, and Facebook, all bearing the handle @nigimmigration. The service also provided its 24-hour contact centre lines as 09121900655, 09121556359, and 09121477092, while WhatsApp contacts are 0916087800 and 09117717772. Reports can also be made through its whistleblower email address, nis.actu@immigration.gov.ng. Reaffirming its commitment, the NIS said it remains resolute in securing Nigeria's borders and protecting citizens from exploitation and illegal migration networks.
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