Prof. Adeniran from Obafemi Awolowo University calls for a major revamp of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to better reflect its full role in border security, migration management, policy implementation, and advisory services. Speaking at his inaugural lecture titled “Migralusion: A Mix-Transnational Theory of ‘Japa’ Culture”, he stressed the need for clearer structure, proposing the agency be renamed “Nigerian Migration and Border Service” or “Nigeria Migration and Border Security.”
Adeniran believes migration should be seen as an industry, with proper regulations to maximize economic benefits. He pointed to countries like Sri Lanka and the Philippines that successfully incorporate migration into national development plans. He also urged integrating migration topics into school curriculums from primary to tertiary levels to raise awareness.
Highlighting challenges, he called out overlapping government agencies handling migration, which causes inefficiency, and condemned foreign countries like Canada, the UK, and the UAE for frequently changing skilled immigrant visa rules specifically targeting Nigerians.
To protect and support migrants, Adeniran proposed creating migration clinics in all 774 local government areas to offer counselling, monitoring, and education — especially for youths entering the migration process. He stressed these clinics must be accessible, free, and gender-friendly.
Finally, Adeniran envisions Obafemi Awolowo University becoming Africa’s leading center for migration research and policy analysis, advancing knowledge and effective governance in this critical area.
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