Nigerian Navy Arrests 75 Stowaways Attempting Illegal Migration to Europe

The Nigerian Navy has arrested 75 stowaways aged between 20 and 45 who were attempting to illegally migrate to Europe by hiding on foreign ships leaving Lagos ports between August 2023 and April 2024. The stowaways were discovered during the Navy's efforts to curb illegal migration, which has become a growing problem as Nigerians seek better economic opportunities abroad.

The stowaways, who come from different parts of the country, sneak into the Lagos ports and hide on ships preparing to set sail, either climbing up the anchor chain or spending days in coastal communities monitoring foreign ships before sneaking on board. While some have successfully reached their destinations in Europe, others have been arrested by the Nigerian Navy.

The Navy has expressed concern over this dangerous trend, which it describes as illegal and a security threat to shipowners. The Navy has deployed advanced maritime surveillance equipment and quick response teams to apprehend the stowaways, who are then handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further action.

Why this matters: The arrests highlight the desperate measures some Nigerians are taking to escape poverty and seek better lives abroad. The trend raises concerns about the safety and security of both the stowaways and the ships they hide on.

The Navy has warned of the severe legal consequences and health risks associated with stowing away, and has urged Nigerian youths to refrain from such activities. "The Nigerian Navy wishes to advise the general public, especially the youths, to desist from such misadventures," a Navy spokesperson said in a statement.

Key Takeaways

• Nigerian Navy arrested 75 stowaways aged 20-45 trying to illegally migrate to Europe.
• Stowaways sneak into Lagos ports and hide on ships preparing to set sail.
• Navy deploys surveillance and teams to apprehend stowaways, who are handed to immigration.
• Arrests highlight desperate measures Nigerians take to escape poverty and seek better lives.
• Navy warns of legal consequences and health risks, urging youths to refrain from stowing away.