The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a nationwide Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Sensitisation Campaign with the theme “Say No to Migrant Smuggling.”
The sensitisation programme, held at the ECOWAS Auditorium, Seme Border, Badagry, Lagos State, brought together key stakeholders, including community leaders, transport union executives, and security agencies, to intensify efforts against irregular migration.
Speaking at the event, the Comptroller of Seme Border Command, Abdullahi Adamu, described irregular migration as a major threat to individuals, communities, and national security.
He noted that such movements often expose migrants to exploitation, human trafficking, and loss of life.
Adamu explained that the Seme Border and Border Patrol Commands remain committed to promoting safe and legal migration while tackling the root causes of irregular movement such as economic hardship, conflict, and unemployment.
“Irregular migration is not a solution—it only deepens vulnerability and undermines our nation’s security,” he said. “We are strengthening border surveillance and implementing control measures to curb illegal movement. This effort requires collective action from all stakeholders.”
Also speaking, the Comptroller of Border Patrol Command, Peter Adache, highlighted the dangers of irregular migration, defining it as movement across borders irrespective of legal status or voluntariness.
He revealed that the NIS has established a dedicated Directorate of Migration to address the growing concerns.
“Many irregular migrants end up exploited, trafficked, or even victims of organ harvesting,” Adache cautioned, calling for increased public awareness and vigilance.
Delivering the keynote address titled “Safeguarding Our Future: The Role of Border Communities and Law Enforcement Agencies in Preventing Irregular Migration for National Security and Economic Stability,” ACIIO S. A. Ologwu, Special Assistant to the DCG Border Patrol Command, Abuja, stressed the importance of collaboration between communities and law enforcement in securing borders and protecting national interests.
He reaffirmed that preventing irregular migration is a shared responsibility crucial to both national security and economic stability.
Reporting by PENTHO FRANCIS