Illegal immigration
At a sensitisation forum in Ikeja, government officials and agencies unite to tackle human trafficking and unsafe migration, calling on Nigerians to embrace local opportunities and protect their future.
The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, has issued a strong warning to public servants and young Nigerians against the dangers of illegal migration and human trafficking, urging them to harness opportunities within the country rather than risk their lives in search of uncertain prospects abroad.
The call was made during a sensitisation programme themed “Partnership for Protection: Safeguarding Public Servants Against Trafficking and Unsafe Migration,” held on Wednesday at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja. The event, jointly organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations alongside federal agencies, sought to enlighten citizens about the growing threat of human trafficking and its devastating consequences.
Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, described human trafficking as “a form of modern-day slavery” that feeds on people’s desperation to seek greener pastures outside the country. He noted that many Nigerians continue to fall victim to traffickers who exploit their belief that success can only be achieved overseas. According to him, labour and sexual exploitation remain the two most common forms of trafficking affecting Nigerians both at home and abroad.
Oyerinde appealed to Lagos State public servants to maintain a positive outlook and to believe in the potential of the state and the nation at large. “Dear public servants of Lagos State,” he said, “I appeal to you to remain positive and believe in the potential of our state and our nation. Make the best use of every opportunity available towards achieving your dreams.” He emphasised that Nigeria offers numerous avenues for growth, and urged citizens to focus on self-development rather than falling prey to deceptive migration schemes.
The sensitisation event brought together key agencies including the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and the National Orientation Agency (NOA). Each organisation shared insights on how collaboration and awareness can curb the menace of human trafficking and illegal migration.
NiDCOM Chairperson, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, lamented the increasing number of educated youths and professionals being lured into dangerous migration routes by traffickers. She described the trend as deeply troubling, stressing that human traffickers often “capitalise on people’s desperation.” She urged Nigerians to work collectively towards building a nation that provides opportunities for all, saying, “We must make Nigeria not just a country people love, but a country people are not forced to escape from.”
Her comments echoed recent concerns raised by the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba, who last week called for tougher measures against traffickers at the 2025 Africa Colloquium Against Human Trafficking held in Ikeja. Justice Alogba described human trafficking as “a global pandemic deeply rooted in slavery,” and stressed the need for stronger community vigilance, more effective law enforcement, and enhanced international cooperation to eliminate the crime.
The event underscored the shared commitment of government institutions to safeguarding Nigerians, particularly youths and public servants, from the growing menace of illegal migration. Speakers collectively emphasised that the dream of a better life should not come at the cost of human dignity, safety, or freedom. Instead, they urged citizens to believe in Nigeria’s potential and to contribute actively to its development rather than fall victim to the false promises of traffickers.
The sensitisation campaign is part of broader efforts by both state and federal authorities to stem the tide of unsafe migration, empower Nigerians with accurate information, and build resilience against exploitation. Participants were reminded that true progress begins with self-belief and a collective determination to create sustainable opportunities within the country.
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