NIDCOM gives reasons for detention of 3 Nigerians at South African Airport

By Ayox Ojo

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has explained why three Nigerians on trip to South Africa were held at the airport and not allowed to enter the country.

NIDCOM said this while confirming that the Nigerians had eventually cleared to depart South Africa back home in a statement on Sunday.

NIDCOM, in a statement blamed the use of unregulated visa agents for procurement of South African visas as well as digital footprints of one the Nigerian for the refusal of the South African authorities to allow them into their country.

“The core issue in many such cases stems from the over-reliance on unregulated visa agents. These agents often collect applicants’ passport data pages and complete sections of the visa application particularly on purpose of visit, itinerary, accommodation, and ties to Nigeria without the full knowledge or approval of the travellers.

“Consequently, many applicants are unable to defend the information provided when questioned during immigration interviews, resulting in entry refusal,” NIDCOM said.

It also added that one of the Nigerians detained has posted insulting comments about the South African government online and has been on the watchlist of the government in that country.

“In this particular case, one of the individuals had previously posted insulting remarks about the South African government online. This had already placed him on their watchlist. When confronted at the port of entry, he was unable to defend or substantiate those statements, which further aggravated the situation.”

NIDCOM therefore advised Nigerian travelling outside the country to always ensure that they apply for visas directly or through only licensed and verifiable agents and never allow any third party to fill sections of their application without their full review and approval.

The Commission also urged Nigerian travellers to ensure every detail submitted is accurate and that they can personally explain and defend it during any immigration interview.

NIDCOM also urged Nigerians to be mindful of their digital footprint as it noted that Immigration authorities, routinely conduct social media checks.

“Derogatory or inflammatory posts [about other countries or your home country] can lead to secondary screening or visa denial,” NIDCOM said while also admonishing Nigerians to ensure that they always travel with genuine, well-documented reasons for their visit and carry all necessary supporting evidence.

“NIDCOM will continue to monitor the situation and engage the relevant South African authorities to prevent recurrence of such incidents.

“We strongly urge all Nigerians planning international travel to exercise due diligence. Responsible preparation protects not only the individual but also Nigeria’s reputation.

“NIDCOM thanks the Nigerian high commission in South Africa for their prompt intervention and will continue to follow up with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian high commission in South Africa,” the Commission said.