By Zainab Bakare
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has renewed its warning against illegal migration, particularly through dangerous routes such as the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea, where many migrants attempt to reach Europe in unsafe boats.
The Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, gave the warning while receiving George Emmanuel, a Nigerian who survived the hazardous journey across the Sahara Desert and a boat accident in the Mediterranean Sea.
During the meeting, Emmanuel recounted his harrowing experience, including the capsizing of the boat he was travelling in, which claimed the lives of 28 people.
Ebienfa commended Emmanuel for turning his experience into an advocacy campaign, raising awareness about the dangers of irregular migration and discouraging others from undertaking perilous journeys through the Sahara Desert or attempting to cross the Mediterranean in rickety boats.
The Federal Government says it, remains deeply concerned about the devastating human cost of irregular migration.
Many Nigerians have lost their lives or suffered severe physical and psychological trauma due to exploitation by human traffickers and migrant smugglers, harsh desert conditions, detention and abuse in transit countries, and the deadly risks associated with Mediterranean crossings.
The spokesperson says Nigeria is addressing the root causes of irregular migration by expanding economic opportunities, strengthening border management, intensifying efforts to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling networks, and promoting safe, orderly and regular migration pathways in collaboration with transit and destination countries as well as international organisations.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the voluntary return, protection, psychosocial care and sustainable reintegration of Nigerians facing distress abroad.
He also noted that Nigerian missions overseas continue to provide consular assistance to citizens in need.
Ebienfa thanked George Emmanuel for sharing his story and wished him a full recovery and success in his advocacy efforts.
The Federal Government also urged Nigerians, especially young people, to exercise caution, verify information before making migration decisions, and reject the false promises of irregular migration, which too often end in tragedy.
