The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has raised concerns about the growing number of irregular migrants entering Nigeria. At a recent awareness campaign held in Benin City, Edo State, Martins Moye, the Controller of the NIS Edo State Command, emphasized the need for public education on safe migration. The event, themed “Say No to Migrant Smuggling. If You Must Migrate, Migrate Safely, Orderly, and Regularly,” aimed to address the dangers of irregular migration.
Over three days, NIS officers visited local landmarks, including the palace of the Enogie (Duke) of Eyaen, as well as markets, motor parks, and streets, to raise awareness about illegal migration. Moye stressed the importance of public cooperation to help reduce these rising cases.
Assistant Controller of Immigration, David Amanahu, who facilitated the event from the NIS headquarters in Abuja, acknowledged Edo State’s history with irregular migration but noted recent improvements. “Thanks to the Edo State Command’s hard work, the state is no longer ranked number one in irregular migration,” Amanahu stated, highlighting the efforts of the Edo team.
He also relayed a message from the Controller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, underscoring the NIS’s increased focus on managing borders and migration issues.
Deputy Superintendent of Immigration, Woshak Danladi, further warned of the serious risks associated with irregular migration. He explained, “Irregular migration can cost you your freedom, and in some cases, even your life. Risks include organ harvesting, human rights abuses, and other severe dangers.” Danladi encouraged officers to continue educating the public about the importance of safe and legal migration routes.
The NIS hopes that these efforts will help reduce irregular migration and protect Nigerians from the risks associated with illegal travel routes.