By: Manoah Kikekon
LAGOS, Nigeria – In a decisive move to combat a rising national crisis, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) launched a massive nationwide Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Sensitization Campaign on Tuesday, October 4, 2025. Under the resonant theme, “Say No to Migrant Smuggling,”
The event at the ECOWAS Auditorium, Seme Border, Lagos State, united a powerful coalition of security agencies, international organizations, and crucially, leaders of motorcycle riders and drivers unions, who are often on the front lines of this illicit trade.
Comptroller Abdullahi Adamu, Comptroller Seme Command highlighted the severe dangers of irregular migration, stating it “poses significant risks to individuals, communities and the nation… leading to exploitation, human trafficking and loss of life.”
He affirmed that the Seme Border Command and Border Patrol Command are fully committed to combating the scourge. Acknowledging the root causes economic hardship, conflict, and lack of opportunities Comptroller Adamu was clear: “Irregular migration is not a solution to these challenges.”
He revealed a multi-pronged strategy involving strengthened border surveillance, new control measures, and a collaborative framework with community leaders and international partners, emphasizing that this fight “is not for immigration alone.”
Comptroller Peter Adache of the Border Patrol Command delivered a stark presentation on the dangers of irregular migration. He defined the issue broadly and highlighted the extreme vulnerabilities faced by migrants, including discrimination, exploitation, and abuse. In a chilling warning, he stated, “We have heard stories where those who emigrated irregularly are being killed, used for rituals, or gone through organ harvesting.”
Charting the way forward, Comptroller Adache stressed the importance of a legal framework, which guides officers in the field and is embedded in Nigeria’s Immigration regulations. He also underscored the Service's commitment to leveraging modern technology to address the evolving challenges of 21st-century migration.
ACD IO Ologwu, S.A to the DCG Border Patrol Command, Abuja, delivered a presentation titled “Safeguarding Our Future: The Role of Border Communities and Law Enforcement Agencies in Preventing Irregular Migration for National Security and Economic Stability”
The presentation laid out the severe national security implications, directly linking irregular migration to organized crime like drug and arms smuggling, and a heightened risk of potential terrorism. It further warned that an influx of irregular migrants can fuel social unrest, xenophobia, and compromise the very integrity of Nigeria’s borders, making them difficult to control effectively.
The campaign moved beyond identifying problems to championing a collaborative model where border communities and law enforcement agencies act as inseparable partners. The resounding message was one of shared responsibility and opportunity. By working together, stakeholders can transform migration from a national threat into a managed process that contributes to mutual growth and resilience.