Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned citizens against irregular migration through the Sahara Desert and dangerous Mediterranean Sea crossings, saying many Nigerians continue to lose their lives to traffickers, smugglers and unsafe migration routes.
The warning followed a meeting in Abuja between the ministry’s spokesperson, Mr. Kimiebi Ebienfa and George Emmanuel, a Nigerian who survived a hazardous journey through the Sahara and a boat accident in the Mediterranean.
In a statement, according to the ministry, Mr Emmanuel recounted how a boat carrying migrants capsized during the crossing, killing 28 people.
It said migrants were often exposed to exploitation by traffickers and smugglers, extreme desert conditions, detention and abuse in transit countries, and the deadly risks of Mediterranean crossings.
Mr Ebienfa commended Mr Emmanuel for speaking publicly about his experience and campaigning against illegal migration through the Sahara and attempts to reach Europe in unsafe boats.
The ministry said Nigeria was addressing the root causes of irregular migration through expanded economic opportunities, stronger border management, closer cooperation against human trafficking and migrant smuggling, and the promotion of safe and regular migration pathways.
It also reaffirmed support for the voluntary return, protection, psychosocial care and sustainable reintegration of Nigerians in distress abroad.
The ministry said Nigerian diplomatic missions would continue to provide consular assistance to citizens facing difficulties along irregular migration routes.
RN
