The Nigeria Immigration Service has cautioned Nigerians against attempting to travel out of the country without valid travel documents, warning that such actions are illegal and expose citizens to serious risks.
In a public advisory shared via its official X handle on Monday, the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI A.S. Akinlabi, stressed that all international travel must follow due process and comply with established immigration requirements.
According to the agency, travellers are expected to possess valid passports, visas where necessary, and other approved documentation before embarking on any international journey.
The NIS warned that bypassing official procedures or using unauthorised border routes amounts to a violation of Nigerian immigration laws.
It also raised alarm over the increasing activities of criminal networks that promote fake job offers and fraudulent migration schemes targeting young Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
The Service noted that many victims are often lured with promises of employment, education, or improved living conditions, only to end up in exploitative situations.
“These schemes often result in forced labour, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation,” the agency warned, adding that there are no legitimate shortcuts to international travel outside approved immigration channels.
The statement further urged Nigerians to verify all travel and job offers through official government channels and avoid engaging with unregistered agents or individuals promoting irregular migration.
It also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious migration-related activities to the nearest immigration office or relevant security agencies.
Reaffirming its commitment to border security, the NIS said it remains dedicated to protecting Nigerians from exploitation and strengthening the country’s immigration control systems.
