As part of continuous efforts by the Federal Government to reintegrate Nigerians back into the nation, 390 Nigerian migrants who were trapped in Niamey, Niger Republic, have been repatriated.
The return of 702 trapped Nigerians from Niger in December 2024 was followed by this most recent mission.
The returnees, comprising 387 adult males, two adult females, and one infant boy, arrived at the Nigeria Immigration Training School, Kano, at approximately 1:05 a.m. on Tuesday.
The Nigerian Mission in Niamey, working with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is facilitating the third round of voluntary returns.
During a reception held for the returnees in Kano, the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Tijjani Ahmed, reiterated the government’s dedication to reintegrating the returnees. Speaking through the Kano State Field Coordinator, Hajiya Liman, he said:
“This effort is a continuation of the voluntary repatriations we began in 2024. It highlights the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda to ensure that every Nigerian has access to opportunities for a better life,” he said.
Ahmed further explained that the operation was a multi-agency effort, ensuring the smooth return of the migrants.
“The success of this operation is due to the seamless collaboration among agencies such as NCFRMI, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the IOM. Upon arrival, all returnees were registered and profiled to ensure proper documentation and access to reintegration support programmes,” he added.
The commissioner also noted that the government is working to empower the returnees through various initiatives to help them rebuild their lives.
One of the returnees, Abdullahi Musa, expressed gratitude to the government for facilitating their return.
“I never thought I would see home again after the hardships we faced in Niger. I am grateful for this opportunity to start afresh,” Musa said.
The voluntary returns, according to officials, are a component of larger initiatives to resolve migratory issues and offer displaced individuals long-term alternatives.
Hajiya Liman, speaking on behalf of NCFRMI, promised the returnees further assistance.
“We want to ensure that you are not just back home but also empowered to thrive. This is the essence of the Federal Government’s reintegration agenda,” she said.
The returnees have since been provided with temporary accommodations and will undergo further assessments to determine their individual needs as they prepare for reintegration into society.
