The Platform for Cooperation on Mixed Migration (PCMM) has called on the governments of the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia to ensure that their new joint campaign against visa fraud does not penalize legitimate Nigerian applicants who follow due process.
The three countries recently launched the #FightingVisaFraud initiative in response to growing cases of fraudulent agents, fake employment offers and illegal fast-track services targeting Nigerians seeking travel or migration opportunities. PCMM described the campaign as timely and necessary, noting that many citizens have suffered financial losses, exploitation and even trafficking after falling prey to visa scams.
However, the organization stressed that focusing solely on fraudulent activities ignores the deeper issues within the visa systems of the partner governments.
PCMM stated that thousands of genuine applicants continue to face unfair visa refusals, opaque decision-making and an absence of appeal options — issues that push many desperate travelers into the hands of unregulated middlemen.
“People who submit complete, authentic documents are still being denied without explanation,” the organization said. “When applicants cannot challenge decisions or understand the reasons behind them, distrust grows and vulnerability increases.”
The group also raised concerns about the operations of Visa Application Centres (VACs), citing frequent delays, poor communication and prolonged refund processes for applicants who withdraw or amend their applications. PCMM argued that these inefficiencies amount to financial harm, particularly for young Nigerians and families who save for months to apply legally.
To truly reduce fraud and safeguard migrants, PCMM urged the partner governments to prioritize reforms that include:
More transparent and consistent visa decisions
Clear communication on refusal reasons
Effective and lawful avenues for appeal
Expansion of safe and regular migration routes
Faster and more accountable refund procedures at VACs
PCMM emphasized that tackling fraud requires both external and internal accountability.
“Protecting Nigerians from scammers is important,” the group noted, “but governments must also ensure their own systems do not frustrate or disadvantage the very people they claim to protect.”
The statement was signed by Chioma Bukola-Jehami Aihawu, Executive Secretary of PCMM, and issued on Friday, 28th November, 2025, in Abuja.