Nigeria Immigration Service Arrests 125 Foreigners in Lagos

On March 30, 2023, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Lagos State Command arrested 125 foreign nationals for alleged immigration-related offenses. Among those arrested, 82 individuals are set to be repatriated.

The operation, which took place in areas including Alimosho, Ebut Metta, and Badagry, was intelligence-driven and conducted in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force. The arrests included 100 nationals from the Republic of Niger and 25 from the Republic of Mali.

While 43 migrants were found to have valid ECOWAS travel certificates and biometric identification cards, the remaining 82 lacked valid travel documents or residence permits. Chris Onojinrin, the Comptroller of the NIS Lagos State Command, stated that the operation was in line with the Immigration Act of 2015 and aimed to ensure that anyone entering Nigeria complies with immigration laws.

He emphasized that the NIS does not target foreigners who adhere to the law and conduct legitimate business.