NIS: 'Illegal Travel Could Lead to Trafficking or Jail'
Last update: May 25, 2026
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Thinking of jetting off with a too-good-to-be-true job offer? The NIS says you could be walking straight into a trafficking trap.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is sounding the alarm over a worrying rise in fake migration schemes and shady cross-border deals, warning Nigerians that travelling out of the country without proper documents is not just illegal — it’s dangerous.
According to a statement released Monday in Abuja by the NIS Public Relations Officer, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, criminal networks are targeting vulnerable Nigerians, especially young women. They’re dangling fake promises of jobs, schooling and “better lives” abroad. But behind the sweet talk? Forced labour, human trafficking and exploitation, cbinews.tv reports.
“It is illegal to leave Nigeria without a valid passport, visa, and other required documents, and doing so poses serious dangers,” the NIS stated. The service stressed that no legitimate travel process skips official immigration procedures or authorised border posts.
What to watch out for
The NIS wants everyone to be extra careful with unsolicited offers of sponsorship, free travel, or random “help” to go abroad from people you don’t know or can’t verify. That’s a classic trafficking tactic.
Instead, here’s what they advise:
Double-check every travel or job opportunity through official government channels.
Steer clear of agents pushing irregular migration routes.
Report anything suspicious — dodgy movements, offers, or people — to the nearest NIS office or security agency.
Parents, guardians and community leaders should talk to young people about the real risks of trafficking and illegal migration.
Need to report or get clarity?
You can reach the NIS directly:
X, Instagram & Facebook: @nigimmigration
24/7 contact centre: 09121900655, 09121556359, 09121477092
WhatsApp: 0916087800, 09117717772
Whistleblower email: nis.actu@immigration.gov.ng
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains resolute in its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and protecting citizens from exploitation,” the statement concluded, according to cbinews.tv.
Source: cbinews.tv
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