FG Raises Alarm Over Illegal Migration, Warns Nigerians Against Sahara, Mediterranean Routes
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The Federal Government has renewed its warning against illegal migration, urging Nigerians to shun dangerous journeys through the Sahara Desert and across the Mediterranean Sea, saying thousands of lives have been lost to human traffickers, harsh environmental conditions and deadly sea crossings.
The warning was issued by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs after its Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, met with Mr. George Emmanuel, a Nigerian who survived both the hazardous Sahara Desert route and a boat accident in the Mediterranean Sea.
According to a statement signed by Ebienfa at the weekend, Emmanuel recounted his harrowing experience during the meeting, revealing that 28 people died when the boat conveying migrants capsized in the Mediterranean.
The ministry described Emmanuel’s account as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with irregular migration and commended him for using his experience to campaign against illegal migration and discourage others from taking similar risks.
It stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting Nigerians from the dangers of irregular migration by addressing its underlying causes through job creation, improved economic opportunities, stronger border security and enhanced collaboration with international partners to dismantle human trafficking and migrant smuggling networks.
The ministry added that Nigeria would continue to promote safe, orderly and regular migration channels while providing voluntary return programmes, psychosocial support and sustainable reintegration for citizens stranded or distressed abroad through its diplomatic missions.
Ebienfa thanked Emmanuel for sharing his story and wished him success in his advocacy efforts, while urging Nigerians, especially young people, not to be deceived by false promises of better opportunities through illegal migration.
He warned that irregular migration often results in exploitation, abuse, detention and, in many cases, death, urging prospective migrants to seek only lawful and safe pathways.
