Japa Scams: IOM Warns Nigerians about Fake UK Job Offers

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) revealed that over 1,000 Nigerians have fallen prey to scams promising employment opportunities in the United Kingdom.

In a press conference on Monday in Abuja, Laurent De Boeck, the Chief of Mission for IOM, urged Nigerians to verify information before considering migration.

Boeck disclosed that some victims lost up to $10,000 in attempts to secure non-existent jobs abroad. Stranded in the UK, some lack the means to return, while others feel embarrassed to face their families.

“There are those who lost over $10,000 receiving fake employment letters for visa applications. Over a thousand people are affected,” Boeck stated.

He further revealed that in 2023, over 260,000 Nigerians sought guidance from IOM on legal migration routes, undergoing pre-departure health assessments. IOM is actively collaborating to repatriate individuals, including Nigerians, from Tunisia, which recently banned migration.

Addressing displacements, Boeck noted a 30% annual increase for the past five years, particularly in North West states. Zamfara remains the most affected, with banditry and crime contributing to the rise.

“In 2023, IOM identified and supported 682 victims of trafficking, focusing on vulnerable groups. Collaborating with the Nigerian government, IOM facilitated the return of 4,431 Nigerians, providing reintegration assistance to 2,853 individuals for socio-economic opportunities of their choice. IOM’s healthcare efforts included over 260,000 Pre-Departure Medical Health Assessments, diagnosing and referring 166 migrants with TB, administering 15,000 vaccine doses, and renovating three public hospitals,” Boeck highlighted.