The Federal Government has issued a strong warning to Nigerians against engaging in illegal migration, particularly through dangerous routes across the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea, following harrowing accounts from a survivor.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave the warning while receiving Mr. George Emmanuel, a Nigerian who survived irregular migration through the Sahara Desert and a tragic boat mishap in the Mediterranean Sea.
Speaking during the meeting on Friday, the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, cautioned that such journeys often end in disaster, citing the increasing loss of lives linked to unsafe migration channels.
Emmanuel recounted his traumatic experience, including a boat accident that claimed the lives of 28 migrants, highlighting the extreme dangers faced by individuals attempting to reach Europe through irregular means.
Ebienfa commended Emmanuel for turning his ordeal into advocacy, noting his efforts to raise awareness about the risks of illegal migration and discourage others from embarking on similar journeys.
“The Federal Government remains deeply concerned about the human cost of irregular migration,” Ebienfa said, stressing that many migrants suffer exploitation by traffickers, harsh desert conditions, detention, abuse in transit countries, and fatal sea crossings.
He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to tackling the root causes of irregular migration by expanding economic opportunities, strengthening border management, and enhancing collaboration with international partners to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
The spokesperson also emphasized ongoing efforts to promote safe, orderly, and legal migration pathways, while assuring that Nigerian missions abroad continue to provide consular support to distressed citizens.
He further reaffirmed the government’s support for voluntary return programmes, including protection, psychosocial assistance, and sustainable reintegration of affected Nigerians.
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Ebienfa urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to exercise caution, verify migration information, and avoid falling victim to false promises that often lead to tragic outcomes.
“The government calls on all Nigerians to desist from illegal migration and instead explore legitimate opportunities that guarantee safety and dignity,” he said.
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