Nigeria Immigration Service intercepts 294 citizens from irregular migration amid ‘Japa’ trend

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has prevented 294 Nigerians from leaving the country on suspicion of engaging in migrant smuggling activities, according to the Comptroller General of Immigration Service (CGIS), Kemi Nandap.
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‎Speaking at a sensitization seminar in Abuja on Tuesday, Nandap also disclosed that the NIS denied entry to 332 undocumented migrants and rescued 36 victims of human trafficking and child labor at the Seme border in recent weeks.
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The incidents show the growing problem of irregular migration, often driven by the popular “Japa” trend, Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad.
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The term “Japa”, is a Yoruba word meaning “to run away” has become a popular colloquial term describing the mass migration of young, skilled Nigerians seeking economic opportunities, primarily to the UK, Canada, and the US. While many migrate legally, the CGIS expressed concern over the rising number attempting to do so irregularly, risking their lives due to the perception that “the grass is greener on the other side.”
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The scale of the problem was emphasized by the fact that the interception and rescue figures were not annual statistics but were recorded within a short period. The NIS reported that recent operations, particularly at the Seme Border (the busy land crossing between Nigeria and Benin), were aided by newly installed CCTV cameras.
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CGIS Nandap stressed that migrant smuggling is now more complex and transnational, facilitated by highly organized criminal networks. In response, the NIS is adopting a multi-dimensional strategy that includes strengthening legal frameworks, expanding public awareness, and enhancing inter-agency and international cooperation to combat the menace.
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