By Mary Imokhe, Lagos
Three Ghanaian nationals attempting to migrate illegally to Europe through maritime routes have been intercepted in Lagos and handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) by the Nigerian Navy.
The stowaways were discovered aboard a merchant vessel, MV Anatolia, which berthed at the Dangote Terminal after departing from Côte d’Ivoire.
Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams Aliu, said the suspects concealed themselves in the ship’s rudder compartment in a desperate attempt to reach Europe.
Investigations showed that the trio had previously relocated from Ghana to Abidjan, where they lived and worked as fishermen for about a year before embarking on the risky journey.
“They accessed the vessel from Abidjan and hid in a confined compartment before departure. Upon arrival in Lagos, they came out believing they had reached Europe, which led to their arrest,” Cdre Adams-Aliu explained.
The suspects, identified as Armah Peter (26), Amisah Daniel (22), and Amoh Michael (25), were found on March 28, 2026, after spending less than two days onboard under harsh conditions.
Naval officials said the men gained access to the vessel using a canoe before it sailed out of Ivorian waters.
Following their arrest, they were taken to NNS Beecroft for profiling before being transferred to immigration authorities for further action, including possible repatriation.
The Navy noted that the interception highlights ongoing collaboration among security agencies to curb illegal migration and safeguard Nigeria’s maritime environment.
Reacting to the incident, Commodore Adams-Aliu warned that stowing away on ships remains one of the most dangerous forms of illegal migration.
He explained that individuals who hide in ship compartments face severe risks, including suffocation, dehydration and illness due to the extremely harsh environment.
Cdre Adams-Aliu called on parents, guardians and community leaders across the region to discourage young people from attempting such journeys.
“This practice is not only unlawful but puts lives at serious risk. It should be strongly discouraged at all levels,” he said.
He further assured shipping companies and maritime stakeholders that Nigerian waters remain secure for lawful operations.
According to him, NNS Beecroft will continue to enforce the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to protect the country’s maritime domain and ensure uninterrupted commercial activities.
The Navy reaffirmed its resolve to intensify surveillance and clamp down on illegal activities within Nigeria’s territorial waters.
