By Emmanuel M. Kangar, Jr.
LAGOS — Nigerian authorities have handed over three Ghanaian nationals to immigration officials after they were discovered hiding aboard a cargo ship in Lagos, officials confirmed.
The men, believed to be stowaways, said they had boarded the vessel under the assumption that it was bound for Europe. According to their account, they had hoped to reach destinations such as Britain, Canada, or Spain. Instead, the ship docked in Nigeria, where they were found after spending approximately five days at sea.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the men gained access to the vessel while it was still in Ivorian waters. Using a canoe, they reportedly approached the cargo ship and climbed aboard undetected before its departure.
Authorities said the stowaways carried only basic provisions for the journey, including gari, water, biscuits, and sugar, suggesting they had prepared for a prolonged trip.
The incident highlights ongoing risks associated with irregular migration attempts, as individuals continue to undertake dangerous journeys in search of better opportunities abroad.
Nigerian immigration officials are expected to coordinate with their Ghanaian counterparts regarding the next steps for the three men.
