The Federal Government has confirmed that 332 migrants were recently prevented from entering Nigeria through the Seme border after they were found with irregular travel documents. Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, disclosed this during a media briefing on Monday, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders.
According to Nandap, the individuals, who attempted to cross into the country through the Seme border corridor, were stopped by immigration officers after routine checks revealed discrepancies in their travel papers. She explained that the interception was part of ongoing border security operations aimed at curbing illegal migration, human trafficking, and cross-border crimes.
“These 332 persons were intercepted and denied entry because their travel documents did not meet the requirements for legal entry into Nigeria,” Nandap said. “We remain vigilant and committed to ensuring that only properly documented migrants are allowed across our borders.”
The Comptroller General added that the NIS has intensified patrols across all major border points, working closely with regional partners to tackle irregular migration and transnational crimes. She emphasized that Nigeria’s borders remain open to legitimate travelers, but strict measures are in place to detect and deter any attempt at illegal entry.
Nandap further noted that the agency’s personnel have been trained and equipped to identify forged documents and irregular travel patterns, stressing the importance of international collaboration in addressing border-related challenges.
Reports from the border indicate that the intercepted individuals were profiled and handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation. Officials said no fewer than 75 percent of those stopped were nationals from neighboring West African countries.
The Nigeria Immigration Service has in recent months ramped up enforcement following increased reports of irregular migration and smuggling activities through land borders. The agency has also launched awareness campaigns to educate travelers on proper documentation and the risks of illegal border movements.
Security analysts have commended the NIS for the move, noting that such efforts help strengthen national security, prevent cross-border terrorism, and protect Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The Federal Government’s interception of 332 migrants at the Seme border underscores its renewed vigilance on border management. With the NIS reinforcing its presence across entry points, authorities say the aim is to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s borders and ensure that every person entering the country does so legally.
