Nigerian Authorities Urge Citizens to Avoid Dangerous Migration, Focus on Opportunities at Home

Nigerian officials have cautioned citizens against engaging in illegal and hazardous migration, stressing the severe risks involved. Many Nigerians continue to put themselves in life-threatening situations abroad in search of better prospects.

Speaking at an event marking International Human Rights Day, the Chairperson of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, highlighted that thousands of Nigerians are stranded overseas, relying on assistance to return safely.

“Over the years, I have witnessed citizens willingly undertake perilous journeys abroad, often with devastating outcomes,” Dabiri-Erewa said. She noted that the commission, in partnership with the Nigeria Bar Association Human Rights Institute, is actively supporting stranded citizens.

She cited Iraq as an example, where more than 7,000 Nigerians remain stranded, emphasizing that many underestimate the dangers of irregular migration. She urged Nigerians to explore opportunities within the country, noting that “the grass is greener where you nurture it.”

Dabiri-Erewa shared a case of a young woman who used funds meant for medical care, around N2.5 million, to finance an illegal trip to Libya, returning empty-handed. “Such examples show why public awareness and preventive measures are vital,” she said.

Authorities warned of the extreme hazards along migration routes, revealing that 1 in 24 migrants risk death in Libya. NIDCOM is also working with partners to repatriate over 10,500 children stranded abroad.

Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that legal migration with proper documentation and livelihood prospects is acceptable, and called for a collective approach involving government, communities, and institutions to reduce illegal migration and protect citizens.

Speaking at the event, NBA 1st Vice President Sabastine Anyia urged all stakeholders to actively ensure security, stressing the importance of courage, advocacy, and collective responsibility in building a Nigeria where children, youth, and farmers can live and work safely.