The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, says no fewer than 332 migrants were recently denied entry into Nigeria at the Seme border in Lagos State for lacking valid travel documents.
Nandap disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja during a one-day stakeholders’ sensitisation seminar titled “Evolving Patterns in Smuggling of Migrants: Towards a Coordinated National Response.”
She explained that the action formed part of efforts by the service to tighten border governance and improve Nigeria’s migration management systems.
“In addition, 294 Nigerian nationals, suspected to be departing as part of the ‘Japa syndrome’ phenomenon, were refused exit out of concern that they may have been engaging in smuggling activities,” she said.
According to her, Nigeria remains a source, transit, and destination country for migrants seeking better economic opportunities. However, she lamented that criminal syndicates continue to exploit such aspirations, preying on vulnerable citizens and exposing them to grave risks.
“Unfortunately, these syndicates take advantage of people’s search for improved livelihoods. They expose migrants to abuse, exploitation, and, in many cases, death,” Nandap noted.
The Immigration chief also revealed that 36 victims of human trafficking and child labour were rescued at the same border post. She attributed the success to the installation of new CCTV surveillance systems and enhanced collaboration among security agencies.
Nandap described the growing sophistication of migrant smuggling as “transnational and network-driven,” adding that it demands a comprehensive and collaborative national response anchored on vigilance and partnership.
She assured that the NIS would continue to deepen cooperation with key international and regional partners, including the African Union (AU), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), European Union (EU), International Organisation for Migration (IOM), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and INTERPOL, to strengthen intelligence sharing, joint operations, and coordinated interventions.
“Migrant smuggling is a global challenge that requires a united front. Our collaboration with partners has been instrumental in identifying trafficking routes and stopping dangerous movements before they happen,” she said.
Nandap urged Nigerians, particularly the youth, to seek legal and safe pathways for migration, stressing that irregular movements often lead to loss of lives and violations of human rights.
She reaffirmed the service’s commitment to protecting national borders, combating human trafficking, and ensuring that migration contributes positively to Nigeria’s development goals.
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