Immigration Repatriates 567 Foreign Nationals, Rescues 563 Trafficking Victims
From Our Correspondent
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) said it repatriated 567 foreign nationals over alleged violations of the country’s immigration laws and regulations between January and May.
This is as the Service also announced the rescue of 563 victims of trafficking in persons during the aforementioned period.
Spokesperson for the NIS, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, who made the disclosure in a presentation made in Abuja, maintained that the operational success was a reaffirmation of the Service’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
He said: “The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has recorded significant operational successes in strengthening border security, combating transnational crime, and enhancing migration management between January and May 2026, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting national security objectives.
“During the reporting period, the Service intensified enforcement operations against irregular migration and related transnational crimes, resulting in the repatriation of 567 foreign nationals for violations of Nigeria’s immigration laws and regulations.
“In addition, six foreign nationals were deported, comprising four individuals arrested for their involvement in a visa racketeering syndicate and two others who were deported after completing prison sentences for criminal offences.The Service also strengthened efforts to curb identity fraud and abuse of national documentation.
“Enforcement operations led to the recovery of 47 National Identification Number (NIN) cards from irregular migrants, while 21 stowaways were apprehended at various seaports as they attempted to illegally enter or exit the country through unauthorized means
“IIn its sustained fight against human trafficking and migrant smuggling, the Nigeria Immigration Service rescued 563 victims of trafficking in persons, who were subsequently handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further care and support. ”
Meanwhile, the Service also arrested two suspected human traffickers, who were transferred to NAPTIP for investigation and prosecution, while seven victims of migrant smuggling were successfully rescued during enforcement operations.
Beyond enforcement activities, the Service further noted its continued investment in preventive and community-based initiatives, which it highlighted was aimed at addressing the root causes of irregular migration and cross-border crime.
“In March 2026, the Seme Border Command conducted sensitization programmes for drivers’ associations, commercial motorcyclists, and community stakeholders to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration practices.
“Similarly, the Idi-Iroko Border Command carried out public awareness campaigns across markets, motor parks, and schools to educate border communities on the dangers and security implications of trans-border crimes.
“The Service also reviewed its Standard Operating Procedures on Combating Smuggling of Migrants between 28 and 31 January 2026 to strengthen operational effectiveness.
“Furthermore, from 7 to 13 May 2026, the Nigeria Immigration Service conducted a nationwide sensitization campaign against irregular migration across National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, reaching 107,762 corps members.
“To enhance public engagement and transparency, the Service issued three press releases, two public advisories, and two public disclaimers during the reporting period, providing timely information on immigration matters and public safety”, Akinlabi said.
He concluded thus: “On the strategic front, the Nigeria Immigration Service continued to modernize border management through the deployment of advanced technology and critical infrastructure.
“Under the first phase of the e-Border Solution, surveillance masts equipped with 24-hour thermal and optical monitoring capabilities were deployed across several border locations, providing surveillance coverage of 10 to 15 kilometres during the day and up to 5 kilometres at night, with Phase Two expected to expand coverage to additional land border points.
“The Service also established an Integrated Operating Centre (IOC) to serve as a central hub for real-time intelligence gathering, surveillance, and data harmonization relating to foreign nationals”.
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