International Immigration Law and the Management of Irregular Migration: Practical Challenges for Nigerian Immigration Officers

This study examines the practical challenges faced by Nigerian immigration officers in managing irregular migration in light of international immigration law standards, with focus on the South West and South South zones where major ports of entry are located. The management of irregular migration intersects with international human rights law, refugee law, and the bilateral and regional agreements to which Nigeria is a party. Using a professional practice methodology, the research analyses the obligations under the 1951 Refugee Convention, the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) as they apply to the day-to-day decisions of Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) officers. It examines the legal standards governing detention of migrants, screening for refugee status, deportation procedures, and the rights of unaccompanied minors. The paper draws on NIS operational guidelines, recent reports from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and administrative decisions documented by legal aid organisations at Lagos and Port Harcourt airports. Findings reveal significant gaps between international legal obligations and operational practice, including inadequate asylum screening at ports of entry, use of prolonged detention without judicial oversight, and insufficient capacity to identify trafficking victims among irregular arrivals. The paper also evaluates training curricula for immigration officers and finds limited coverage of international law dimensions. Recommendations include comprehensive international law training for NIS officers, adoption of a standard operating procedure aligned with GCM standards, and strengthened coordination with UNHCR at major entry points. Keywords: immigration law, GCM, Nigerian Immigration Service, irregular migration, refugee screening.