By Our Correspondent
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) plan to strengthen partnerships toward curbing illegal migration on Lagos Waterways.
The two Federal Government agencies reached this decision at a meeting, on Thursday, in Lagos
TheNewsZenith reports that the new Comptroller of Immigration Service in charge of Lagos Seaports and Marine Command, CIS Joseph Dada had visited the NIWA Lagos Area Manager, Mrs Sarat Braimah, on Thursday in Lagos.
Visiting CIS Dada observed that NIS would fare better to achieve its mandate in a strategic partnership with the waterways regulator, NIWA.
“We have some challenges on the waterways, even though we do patrols. Collaborating with NIWA will guarantee stronger waterway operations.
“We are not saying people shouldn’t migrate or ‘Japa’ from Nigeria as migration is part of life. And people have the right to seek greener pastures.
“However, they must do it the right way. They must obtain international passports, visas and travel through appropriate channels,” Dada said.
He lamented that several Nigerian ladies have become victims of human trafficking for prostitution. They are usually deceived with the promise of job offers for care workers abroad.
Responding, NIWA boss, Braimah welcomed the idea of strategic collaboration with the NIS.
Read Related News:
Immigration launches fast-track service for Nigerians in diaspora
She noted that both agencies “are working for the common good of Nigeria”.
“We expect this collaboration to prohibit illegal migration. Migration is part of life and as you observed earlier. It fosters tourism, culture and development.
“Nonetheless, we will assist the NIS in achieving its objective, ensuring that people migrate legally,” she said.
According to her, many passengers are boarding ferries from Marina jetty to Badagry and Port Novo.
“We don’t know their final destination or verify their identity, but we’re open to NIS partnership to carry out migration checks,” she said.
Braimah said NIWA could train immigration officials on how to board vessels safely.
She added that the agency could also provide boats and life jackets among other equipment.
Do you have a flair for Citizenship Journalism? Share story(ies) of happenings in your area with The NewsZenith on WhatsApp: 08033668669 or thenewszenith@gmail.com