The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has called on government and stakeholders to take Japa syndrome seriously to avoid brain drain. This was stated yesterday at the NIS headquarters in Calabar during its 60th anniversary celebrations, with ‘Enhancing Seamless Regular Migration,’as theme.

In a presentation titled,‘Migration and the Role of NIS,’ M.O. Ishola said Japa syndrome has made the countrylose great brains to western world where they seek for greener pastures.

According to him, although there is nothing wrong with migrating to other countries, it must be done legally. Ishola said: “The Japa syndrome is what we should take seriously to avoid brain drain, brain waste or brain gain. Don’t enter any county through illegal roots. You have the right to migrate, but you must do it in the right way.

“The role of NIS is to facilitate migration; but it is not right to travel to other countries without documents.It is an offense punishable with five years term in prison or payment of a stipulated fine.

Earlier, the Comptroller of Immigration Service in Cross River State, Emmanuel Akinrinsola, said the service has done tremendous reforms in the last 10 years, especially in border management.

He pointed out that one of itsaccomplishments was the foiled attempt of separatist groups in the South West region of Cameroun, particularly, the Ambazonia Boys, from moving weapons into or through Nigeria to Cameroun.

Akinrinsola added: “We are at the borders to stop terrorists and other unscrupulous elements.” The separatist movements in Cameroun always try to enter Nigeria with arms. So, in collaboration with other security agencies, we do stop them. And when they notice that they cannot break through our security at the borders, they would turn back. Such people are prohibited from entering the country under international protocols.”

The comptroller further disclosed that NIS has been collaborating with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) to stop fleeing Camerounians and facilitate their re-screening exercise.

He explained that the Federal Government has now introduced what they call ‘Green Cards’ for expatriates resident in the country, capturing almost all regular migrants in their database.

Akinrinsola also revealed that government has now opened several missions abroad where they can now issue international passports to Nigerians in the Diaspora, as well as visas to foreigners.He advised migrants to ensure that they visit their offices to regularise their stay in Nigeria.