Ministry of Foreign Affairs Warns Against Dangers of Illegal Migration

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs have warned against the dangers of illegal migration especially through unconventional routes such as the Sahara Desert and crossing the Mediterranean sea to Europe with rickety boats. The

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa made the call on Friday 31st July 2926 when he received Mr. George Emmanuel, a Nigerian who survived the hazardous irregular migration route through the Sahara Desert and a boat mishap in the Mediterranean Sea.

During the meeting, Mr. Emmanuel shared daunting details of his personal experience along these perilous routes, especially the capsizing of the boat that led to the death of 28 persons.

The Spokesperson commended Mr. Emmanuel for his current advocacy engagements and the campaign against illegal immigration, including journeys through the Sahara Desert or attempts to cross the Mediterranean Sea in rickety boats.

The Federal Government of Nigeria remains deeply concerned about the human cost of irregular migration. Countless lives continue to be lost or permanently scarred through exploitation by traffickers and smugglers, exposure to extreme conditions in the desert, detention and abuse in transit countries, and the deadly risks of Mediterranean crossings.

Nigeria is committed to addressing the root drivers of irregular migration through expanded economic opportunities at home, strengthened border management, intensified cooperation against human trafficking and migrant smuggling networks, and the promotion of safe, orderly and regular migration pathways in partnership with destination and transit countries as well as international organisations.

The Ministry reaffirms its support for the voluntary return, protection, psychosocial care and sustainable reintegration of Nigerian nationals who find themselves in distress abroad. Nigerian Missions continue to provide consular assistance to citizens in need along these routes.

The Spokesperson expressed appreciation to Mr. George Emmanuel for the candid exchange and wished him well in his personal recovery and future endeavours.

The Government once again urges all Nigerians, particularly young people, to exercise caution, verify information carefully, and avoid the false promises of irregular migration that so often end in tragedy.