The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has expressed concern over the growing incidence of fake migration schemes and illegal cross-border activities being orchestrated by criminal groups within the country.
The warning was issued in Abuja on Monday by the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, in an official statement.
According to the service, these criminal networks increasingly target vulnerable Nigerians—especially young women and girls—by luring them with false promises of jobs, education opportunities, and better living conditions abroad.
It stated that many individuals who fall victim to such deception eventually face exploitation, including forced labour and human trafficking.
The immigration authority reiterated that travelling outside Nigeria without valid travel documents such as a passport and visa remains unlawful and exposes individuals to serious risks.
It further explained that no legitimate international travel arrangement bypasses official immigration procedures or recognised border points.
The NIS also advised Nigerians to be cautious of unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel funding, or relocation assistance from unfamiliar or unverified sources.
Citizens were urged to confirm the authenticity of any overseas job offers or migration opportunities through appropriate government agencies before taking action.
The service warned against engaging with unofficial agents or intermediaries who promote irregular migration schemes.
It called on the public to report suspicious individuals and activities connected to fraudulent migration operations to the nearest immigration office or other security agencies.
Parents, guardians, and community leaders were also encouraged to educate young people on the dangers associated with irregular migration and human trafficking.
For inquiries or assistance, the service directed the public to its verified social media accounts on X, Instagram, and Facebook under the handle @nigimmigration.
It also provided contact numbers for its 24-hour call centre as well as WhatsApp lines, alongside its official whistleblower email address for reporting suspected cases.
The Nigeria Immigration Service reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security and protecting citizens from trafficking networks and other crimes linked to irregular migration.