The Federal Government of Nigeria has stated that about 15,000 Nigerians are stranded in Cameroon, Niger, Chad and other parts of the world. This is as the government revealed that discussions are ongoing on how to return them to Nigeria in safety and dignity.
This was disclosed by the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, NCFRMI, Tijani Ahmed at a media briefing on Friday in Abuja.
According to Ahmed, no fewer than six million people are displaced in Nigeria. While thousands of refugees are living elsewhere across the world.
He said, “We have 15,000 Nigerians are stranded that want to return to the country voluntarily. And we also have not less than 100,000 foreigners living in this country as refugees.
“All these are the responsibilities of the Commission, to give them support.”
This is as Ahmad reiterated Government’s tireless efforts to ensure safe return of the stranded persons.
The Federal Commissioner, also thanked President Bola Tinubu for the support given to the Commission and the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry.
The NCFRMI boss also disclosed that Nigeria would be hosting the first thematic meeting under its chairmanship of the Rabat Process. The meeting will attract more than 100 delegates from the 57 partner countries in attendance.
Recall that Nigeria assumed chairmanship of the Rabat Process – a Euro-African dialogue on migration and development – in January, 2025.
Ahmed stated that the meeting, scheduled for May 13 and May 14, themed, “Youth, Innovation and Education: Driving the Future of Migration.” will pave the way for bilateral discussions between Nigeria and other countries. And would lead to better migration governance.
He said, “Membership in these platforms provides opportunities for knowledge transfer and better migration management.
“Nigeria’s leadership in the Rabat Process is seen as an advantage, despite its being a one-year term.”
The Federal Commissioner also outlined the challenges in managing migration in the country. These he said included the need for adequate advocacy to inform younger generations about legal migration pathways.
He said, “There is a need to educate migrants about the consequences of irregular migration, including negative outcomes.
“The focus should be on advocating for legal migration pathways to reduce the number of irregular migrants.
“Regular migration involves moving through legal channels. While irregular migration often involves dangerous and illegal methods.
“Irregular migration can lead to hardship and danger, with many migrants unable to return to their home country,” he said.
Ahmed, therefore, called for better coordination and support from various stakeholders, including the media to enhance migration governance.
source: NAN