NIS arrests over 90 illegal immigrants in Rivers

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has arrested more than 90 illegal immigrants in Rivers State as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and enforce immigration laws.

The Comptroller of Immigration, Rivers State Command, CIS Yabagi Abdulmajeed, made the disclosure during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabrabra, in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

Abdulmajeed explained that the arrested individuals were undocumented immigrants apprehended in different parts of the state by NIS officers.

He urged residents to refrain from harbouring or assisting such persons, warning that doing so poses a risk to national security.

He also highlighted the series of reforms recently introduced by the Immigration Service to enhance efficiency in visa and passport issuance across the country.

In his remarks, Dr. Anabrabra commended the NIS for its proactive operations and pledged the state government’s continued support and collaboration with the agency to ensure the security and wellbeing of all residents.

The SSG further called on the Immigration Service to effectively implement the newly reviewed Expatriate Administration System (EAS) Policy, which includes the Expatriate Quota (EQ) Programme.

He noted that the policy was designed to promote knowledge and technology transfer between foreign experts and Nigerian workers.

According to him, “The Expatriate Quota Programme was created to strengthen local content and build skilled manpower.

“By attaching our people to expatriates, we can ensure effective technology transfer and support the growth of local industries.”

Anabrabra reaffirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration would continue to foster partnerships with federal agencies like the NIS to enhance security, promote employment, and create an enabling environment for economic development.

He added that the state government would maintain an open-door policy, welcoming collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the safety and prosperity of Rivers people.