The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) launched a series of successful operations in early 2025, targeting illegal immigration and cybercrime across multiple states. These operations resulted in the apprehension of 155 foreign nationals and their subsequent deportation, demonstrating the NIS’s commitment to upholding national security and combating unlawful activities within the country. The operations were strategically coordinated and involved collaboration with other security agencies, showcasing a multi-pronged approach to addressing these complex issues. The focus on cybercrime highlights the increasing threat posed by this type of activity, particularly its potential to defraud Nigerian citizens. The NIS’s actions send a strong message about the country’s resolve to protect its borders and citizens from criminal elements, both domestic and foreign.
The most substantial operation took place in Rivers State in January 2025, where 90 foreign nationals were arrested for their involvement in cybercrime activities designed to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians. The operation, conducted in conjunction with other security agencies, netted a total of 94 individuals, including four Nigerian accomplices. Among the foreign nationals, 85 were identified as Cameroonians and five as Chadians. The gender breakdown revealed a significant majority of males, with 74 apprehended compared to 20 females. Rivers State Comptroller of the NIS, Mr. Y.I. Abdulmajeed, confirmed that none of the arrested foreign nationals possessed valid travel documents or residence permits, clearly indicating their illegal status within the country. Following their arrest, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, ordered their immediate repatriation.
In February 2025, two additional operations further demonstrated the NIS’s vigilance and commitment to border security. In Ogun State, 25 Beninese nationals were arrested at a commercial farm in Odogbolu Local Government Area. These individuals were working as farm laborers without proper documentation or authorization. Ogun State Comptroller of the NIS, Mr. A.M. Akadri, noted that the suspects had entered the country through unauthorized routes, highlighting the vulnerability of Nigeria’s borders to illegal crossings. Concurrently, in Oyo State, 40 illegal immigrants were apprehended in various locations within Akinyele Local Government Area. This group comprised a diverse mix of nationalities, including 27 Cameroonians, two Ghanaians, 10 Beninese, and one Togolese national. Oyo State Comptroller, Mr. Tayo Dada, reported that the majority claimed to be online marketers, while a smaller number worked as farmers. Consistent with the other arrests, none of these individuals possessed valid travel documents and had entered Nigeria illegally.
These operations underscore the persistent challenge of illegal immigration in Nigeria and the NIS’s proactive efforts to address it. The varied nationalities of the arrested individuals point to a complex web of cross-border movement, likely driven by a combination of economic factors, porous borders, and the allure of illicit activities like cybercrime. The fact that many of those arrested in Oyo State claimed to be online marketers raises concerns about the potential use of this seemingly legitimate occupation as a cover for illegal activities. The NIS’s focus on identifying and apprehending individuals involved in these schemes demonstrates a proactive approach to combating cybercrime and protecting Nigerian citizens from online fraud.
The deportation of these 155 individuals aligns with broader government efforts to curb illegal immigration and strengthen national security. In 2024, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reported the repatriation of 828 foreign nationals, highlighting the government’s ongoing commitment to this issue. The minister also highlighted the interception of 137 victims of trafficking in 2024, underscoring the interconnectedness of illegal immigration with other forms of criminal activity. These efforts are crucial for maintaining national security, protecting vulnerable populations, and ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s immigration system.
The NIS’s multifaceted approach, involving collaboration with other security agencies and targeted operations across multiple states, demonstrates a proactive strategy in tackling the challenges of illegal immigration and cybercrime. The arrests and subsequent deportations send a clear message of deterrence and reinforce the government’s commitment to addressing these issues. The NIS’s ongoing efforts are crucial in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, protecting its citizens from criminal activity, and maintaining national security. The continued collaboration between security agencies and the focus on proactive measures will be essential in mitigating these complex challenges in the future. The government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of illegal immigration and providing support to victims of trafficking is equally vital in addressing this multifaceted issue comprehensively.
