The Nigerian Navy has intercepted two suspected stowaways hiding inside the rudder compartment of a cargo vessel in Lagos waters, thwarting a risky attempt to flee the country undetected.
The men were discovered on 19 March 2026 aboard the vessel Seaspan Lahore as it prepared to exit Nigerian waters, with naval operatives uncovering them during routine surveillance.
Commander of NNS Beecroft, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said the suspects concealed themselves in a highly dangerous section of the ship, warning that such desperate migration attempts are both illegal and life-threatening.
“While migration is a fundamental right, it must be done through legal and safe channels. Hiding on board ships is both illegal and dangerous,” he said.
He raised concern over a growing pattern of stowaways in Lagos, revealing that one of the suspects had previously attempted a similar escape.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and cracking down on illegal activities, while assuring legitimate operators of continued protection.
The suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service for further investigation, as authorities urged young Nigerians to avoid dangerous, irregular migration routes and pursue lawful means of travel.