Several foreign embassies in Nigeria have expressed strong support for the Federal Government’s renewed crackdown on illegal immigrants across the country, describing the move as a necessary step toward enhancing national security and immigration control. The embassies, in separate statements issued over the weekend, commended the government’s determination to curb irregular migration, which they said poses serious security, economic, and diplomatic challenges.
The crackdown, spearheaded by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in collaboration with other security agencies, is aimed at identifying, profiling, and repatriating individuals residing in the country without valid documentation. Authorities said the operation became necessary following intelligence reports suggesting that some foreign nationals have been involved in criminal activities, including smuggling, terrorism financing, and human trafficking.
In their reactions, diplomatic missions from several African, Asian, and European countries pledged to cooperate fully with Nigerian authorities in verifying the status of their nationals. They emphasized that every sovereign state has the right to enforce its immigration laws and maintain control over its borders, provided the exercise is conducted within the framework of international human rights standards.
A senior diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity said his country’s embassy has begun reviewing its consular records to ensure that its citizens living in Nigeria comply with all immigration regulations. He added that the mission is in constant communication with the NIS to facilitate lawful repatriation processes for those found to be residing illegally.
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Interior, reiterated that the exercise is not targeted at any particular nationality or group but is part of broader efforts to strengthen internal security and protect citizens. It warned that illegal immigrants who fail to regularize their stay would face deportation, stressing that Nigeria will no longer serve as a safe haven for individuals who violate immigration laws.
Meanwhile, the NIS disclosed that it has intensified border patrols, especially along the country’s northern and western frontiers, to prevent unlawful entry and exit. The service also announced plans to deploy advanced biometric systems and surveillance technologies to improve border management and track irregular migration patterns.
Security experts have lauded the cooperation between Nigeria and the foreign missions, noting that such collaboration will help foster regional stability and ensure the integrity of international travel. They also urged the government to complement the crackdown with public sensitization campaigns, ensuring that migrants who seek to reside or work in Nigeria can do so through proper legal channels.
