The Nigeria Immigration Service (Nigeria Immigration Service) has cautioned Nigerians against travelling out of the country without valid travel documents, warning that such actions are illegal and expose citizens to risks including trafficking, forced labour, and other forms of exploitation.
The Service raised concern over what it described as a growing wave of fraudulent migration schemes and irregular cross-border movements allegedly being orchestrated by criminal networks targeting vulnerable Nigerians, particularly young women.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja and signed by its Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, the NIS said deceptive offers of employment, educational opportunities, and promises of better living conditions abroad are increasingly being used by traffickers to lure unsuspecting victims.
“It is illegal to leave Nigeria without a valid passport, visa, and other required documents, and doing so poses serious dangers,” the Service stated, stressing that no legitimate international travel process bypasses official immigration procedures or approved border points.
The agency warned Nigerians to be wary of unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel funding, or assistance from unknown individuals or unverified agents, noting that such tactics are commonly used by trafficking syndicates to recruit victims.
The NIS advised members of the public to verify all overseas job or travel opportunities through appropriate government channels, avoid irregular migration facilitators, and report suspicious activities to the nearest immigration office or security agency.
It also urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to intensify awareness campaigns on the dangers of irregular migration and human trafficking, especially among young people seeking opportunities abroad.
For reporting and inquiries, the Service said the public could contact it through its official social media platforms as well as its 24-hour contact lines.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains resolute in its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting citizens from exploitation,” the statement added.
