By IBIRONKE ARIYO

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has raised alarm over the increasing cases of fraudulent migration schemes and irregular cross-border activities being carried out by criminal networks across the country.

The Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Mr Akinsola Akinlabi, gave the caution in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.

The NIS warned that the criminal groups were increasingly preying on vulnerable Nigerians, particularly young women and girls, with fake promises of employment, education and greener pastures abroad.

According to the service, many victims of such deceptive schemes eventually end up in forced labour, human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

The NIS stressed that traveling out of Nigeria without a valid passport, visa and other required travel documents remained illegal and exposed individuals to grave dangers.

The service added that no legitimate travel arrangement bypasses official immigration procedures or authorised border posts.

The NIS also cautioned Nigerians against accepting unsolicited sponsorships, travel fares or offers of assistance to relocate abroad from unknown or unverified individuals.

It urged members of the public to verify all travel opportunities and recruitment offers through appropriate government channels before committing themselves.

The service advised citizens to avoid dealing with agents or individuals promoting or facilitating irregular migration.

The NIS called on Nigerians to promptly report suspicious persons, activities and movements linked to fraudulent migration schemes to the nearest NIS formation or other relevant security agencies.

It also appealed to parents, guardians and community leaders to intensify efforts at educating young people on the dangers of irregular migration and trafficking in persons.

“For clarification and assistance, we advise members of the public to contact the Service through the verified social media platforms on X, Instagram and Facebook, all bearing the handle @nigimmigration.

“The public can also reach the Service through its 24-hour contact centre lines: 09121900655, 09121556359 and 09121477092, as well as WhatsApp numbers 0916087800 and 09117717772,” the service said.

The NIS also urged Nigerians to report suspected cases through the NIS whistleblower email address, nis.actu@immigration.gov.ng.

It reaffirmed commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders and safeguarding citizens against exploitation, trafficking and other crimes associated with irregular migration. (NAN)