The Nigeria Immigration Service has raised alarm over an increase in fraudulent migration schemes and irregular cross-border activities targeting vulnerable Nigerians.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Service Public Relations Officer, A.S. Akinlabi, said criminal networks are increasingly exploiting young people, particularly women and girls, through fake promises of employment, education, and better opportunities abroad.

According to him, these deceptive arrangements often lead victims into forced labour, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation.

“These schemes frequently result in forced labour, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation,” Akinlabi said.

He stressed that it is illegal to travel out of Nigeria without valid travel documents, including a passport and visa, warning that bypassing official immigration procedures exposes individuals to serious risks.

“No genuine travel process bypasses official immigration procedures or authorised border posts,” he said.

Akinlabi urged Nigerians to exercise extreme caution when approached with unsolicited offers of sponsorship, travel funding, or assistance to relocate abroad, especially from unknown or unverified individuals.

He also advised the public to verify all travel and job offers through relevant government agencies before taking any action.

As part of preventive measures, the Immigration Service called on Nigerians to avoid engaging with agents or individuals who promote irregular migration or facilitate unlawful travel arrangements.

The Service further appealed to parents, guardians, and community leaders to educate young people on the dangers of irregular migration and human trafficking, and to remain vigilant in protecting vulnerable persons from exploitation.