Dreaming of leaving Lagos traffic, fuel queues, and “NEPA blues” behind for snowy Canadian suburbs or spotless UK subways? You’re not alone. But before you send that ₦850,000 to one “Agent Kelvin” on WhatsApp who promises a “UK Work Visa + Job + Accommodation + 2 goats” in 10 days — hold up. ✋🏽
Because Lagos isn’t just the land of hustle — it’s also ground zero for travel scams.
Let’s break down 5 notorious locations in Lagos where fake travel agents operate like Yahoo boys with a printer and passport stamps. These stories are real, and they’re backed by court cases, police reports, and enough drama to make you laugh-cry.
1. Iyana-Ipaja – The Visa Bermuda Triangle 🔺
Iyana-Ipaja deserves its own Netflix series. It’s a hotspot for fake travel deals peddled by roadside agents.
In one widely reported case, a man paid ₦450,000 for a “guaranteed Dubai visa” — all he got was fresh air and blocked numbers. [Source: PM News Nigeria]
Online forums like Reddit and Nairaland often flag Iyana-Ipaja as a scam zone, where “travel agencies” run from cyber cafés, beer parlors, or next to suya stands. If your agent shares space with a pepper soup joint… you sabi the rest.
2. Surulere (Mushin/Otun-Oba Axis) – Where Pepper and Passport Mix 🌶️📄
Don’t be fooled by the peace and quiet — Surulere has its share of scammers.
One Kenneth Udemba, operating around Otun-Oba Bus Stop, allegedly collected ₦1.2 million from two people for visas to Denmark and Australia. [Source: PM News Nigeria]
The trick? Dress sharp, speak sweetly, flash fake “visa samples”… then disappear like Lagos power supply during a storm. Pro tip: ask for a CAC certificate — watch how the energy shifts.
3. Lagos Island (Tinubu, CMS) – Where Scams Go Offshore 🌊
Yes, Lagos Island is the city’s commercial core, but it’s also prime real estate for high-stakes travel fraud.
In 2022, Faustina Okonkwo reportedly duped hopeful japa-seekers of ₦4.6 million with fake “Canada express entry” offers. In 2024, Balogun Olamide Yusuf vanished after collecting ₦11 million before the EFCC stepped in. [Source: PM News Nigeria]
If the “agent” says you’ll be in Canada within 14 days — be suspicious. Real immigration doesn’t work like instant noodles.
4. Festac / Iyana-Iba – Where Cyber Cafés Act Like Embassies 💻🛑
In these zones, cyber cafés double as “visa centers.” Agents will show you glossy visa scans, LMIA job offers, and travel itineraries — all printed behind the counter where WAEC results get “edited.”
If your agent is using Yahoo Mail and printing from a dusty HP printer, run. Even Google Maps won’t find their office after payment clears.
5. Social Media – Instagram & WhatsApp Agents of Doom 📱🚫
The new-age scammers don’t even need an office. A catchy handle like “@skywithustravels” or “@visa_approved” and a few stolen passport pics in Highlights — that’s all they need.
Victims have reported losing ₦700k to these faceless accounts that go ghost immediately after payment. No address. No license. No refund.
🎯 Why People Keep Falling Victim
Desperation: The japa dream is strong, but scammers prey on your urgency.
Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: ₦400k for a UK job and house? That’s fiction.
Zero Research: Most people never verify if the “agent” is registered with CAC or NANTA.
✅ Scam-Proof Your Japa Journey – Quick Checklist
Step Why It Matters
Ask for CAC/NANTA registration Real agencies are happy to prove legitimacy
Demand a physical office No one should plan your migration under a kiosk
Don’t pay 100% upfront Reputable firms accept deposits
Google them Check Nairaland, Reddit, and Twitter for reviews
Avoid bus-stop agents Real travel doesn’t start under an umbrella
source: Nairaland/ phosky(m)
