NIS Warns Youths Against Irregular Migration

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Benin City, Edo State has described irregular migration as a risk and not an opportunity to better their lives, warning the youths to shun the lure to traffic them.

The Service stated this during a sensitisation campaign at held at its state headquarters, schools and major streets against the menace in Benin.

Organised by the Nigeria Immigration Service, the campaign was part of the Service’s national outreach on the serious risks and consequences of irregular migration while promoting safe and legal migration options.

In his opening remarks, the Controller of NIS, Edo State Command, CIS Martins Monyei, emphasised the need for collective responsibility in addressing the growing menace of irregular migration.

“Irregular migration is a risk, not an opportunity. Every stakeholder from parents to community leaders must play a role in educating our youths about the dangers and realities of unsafe migration routes,” Monyei said.

The event brought together youths, market women, community leaders and officers of the Command who were engaged through a variety of activities, including interactive sessions, questions and answers, and distribution of educational materials.

According to the organisers, the campaign recorded notable success as participants gained deeper understanding of the dangers of irregular migration.

The NIS further advocated extension of regular sensitisation programmes to schools and rural communities, while urging government agencies and stakeholders to strengthen vocational and employment initiatives to reduce youth unemployment.

“We believe that sustained awareness, coupled with empowerment opportunities, will significantly reduce irregular migration,” Monyei added.