By Onuminya Innocent, Sokoto
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) says it is to partner sister security agencies and other stakeholders to combat migrants smuggling.
The Comptroller General, Kemi Nana Nanda, stated this at Illela border, Sokoto State at the launch nationwide Anti-Smuggling of Migrants on Thursday .
Represented by the comptroller Illela border Tony Akuneme , says the theme of the event “Say No to Migrant Smuggling.was apt and timely considering the recent happenings.
The sensitisation programme, held at the command office and Saint Andrew Secondary School Illela in Sokoto State, brought together key stakeholders, including community leaders, transport union executives, and security agencies, to intensify efforts against irregular migration.
Speaking at the event, Akuneme described irregular migration as a major threat to individuals, communities, and national security.
He noted that such movements often expose migrants to exploitation, human trafficking, and loss of life.
He explained that the Illela and Border Patrol Commands remain committed to promoting safe and legal migration while tackling the root causes of irregular movement such as economic hardship, conflict, and unemployment.
“Irregular migration is not a solution—it only deepens vulnerability and undermines our nation’s security,” he said. “We are strengthening border surveillance and implementing control measures to curb illegal movement. This effort requires collective action from all stakeholders.”
He highlighted the dangers of irregular migration, defining it as movement across borders irrespective of legal status or voluntariness.
He revealed that the NIS has established a dedicated Directorate of Migration to address the growing concerns.
“Many irregular migrants end up exploited, trafficked, or even victims of organ harvesting,” Akuneme cautioned, calling for increased public awareness and vigilance.
He reaffirmed that preventing irregular migration is a shared responsibility crucial to both national security and economic stability.
The stakeholders who spoke from Nigerian Army , Customs Service, Nigerian police, Road Safety Corps , Nigerian Civil Defense Corps and chairman of tricycle association pledged their support to the course.
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