The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has warned citizens that illegal migration is akin to “voluntary suicide missions.” Chairman and CEO Abike Dabiri‑Erewa issued this caution while receiving Mercy Oluwabanga, a 24‑year‑old woman rescued from Libya after she sent a distress video pleading for help.
Oluwabanga, a former business‑administration student at the University of Ilorin who dropped out in 2018, travelled to Libya via illegal routes in December 2021. There she suffered severe mistreatment: her employers frequently threatened her, failed to pay for her services, and subjected her to harsh conditions. After her distress call, NiDCOM, in collaboration with the Nigerian Community in Libya and the Trinity Foundation, facilitated her rescue. Dabiri‑Erewa noted that Oluwabanga’s escape to a private camp made it possible to locate her.
The NiDCOM chairman expressed gratitude that Oluwabanga is now safe, acknowledging that many others are not as fortunate. He emphasized that illegal migration often leads to slavery and urged Nigerians to use safe, legal channels. Oluwabanga, who wishes to resume her education, will receive support through NiDCOM’s NELFUND scheme, enabling her to continue her studies and rebuild her life.
Oluwabanga praised the Federal Government’s swift response and pledged to join advocacy efforts against illegal migration, hoping to deter others from undertaking similar journeys. Her rescue underscores the dangers of illegal migration and the importance of raising awareness about exploitation, abuse, and slavery that frequently accompany such endeavors. By prioritising legal migration pathways, citizens can avoid these risks.
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