Senator Ned Nwoko has called on the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and Nigerian embassies to implement stricter checks on citizens seeking to travel abroad, warning that many end up in distressing situations due to inadequate oversight.
Nwoko, who represents the Delta North Senatorial District and chairs the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, made the appeal during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Monday.
According to him, the increasing number of Nigerians found in foreign prisons or stranded abroad underscores the failure of relevant authorities to conduct proper background checks on those leaving the country.
“It has become a trend for many Nigerians to travel in search of greener pastures, but not all have genuine intentions,” Nwoko said. “Some travel out of desperation to make money by any means, while others go without any clear plans. These are often the individuals who end up destitute or in conflict with foreign laws.”
The lawmaker emphasized that while freedom of movement is a fundamental right, it should not come at the expense of national integrity or the safety of citizens.
“Due diligence is not about restricting freedom; it’s about protecting citizens and safeguarding Nigeria’s image,” he added. “There must be a balance between personal liberty and national responsibility.”
He urged the NIS and embassies to verify the purpose of each trip, confirm the authenticity of job offers, and establish contact with hosts or employers to ensure the legitimacy of such travels.
Nwoko further proposed that the government create a surveillance system to monitor Nigerians living abroad, ensuring their activities align with the reasons stated during their visa applications.
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“The embassies must resist compromise and avoid collusion with citizens travelling with fake documents,” he warned. “Strong collaboration among immigration authorities, embassies, law enforcement, and international partners is key to tackling these challenges.”
The senator also stressed the importance of fostering close relationships between embassies and Nigerian citizens abroad, noting that countries with strong diplomatic ties tend to provide better protection for their nationals.
Meanwhile, the Senate has urged the Federal Government to initiate immediate diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to repatriate hundreds of Nigerian women and children reportedly languishing in Libyan detention centres—victims of trafficking, slavery, and abuse.
The motion was sponsored by Senator Aniekan Etim Bassey (APC, Akwa Ibom South), who highlighted the urgent need for coordinated rescue and rehabilitation of affected citizens.
(NAN)