FG Repatriates 390 Nigerian Migrants From Niger Republic
A fresh batch of 390 stranded Nigerian migrants has been repatriated from Niamey, Niger Republic, as part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to reintegrate individuals back into the country.
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 operation marks the third batch of voluntary returns facilitated by the Nigerian Mission in Niamey in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
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 shows the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda to ensuring that every Nigerian has access to chances for a better life,” he said.
Ahmed also noted that the operation was a multi-agency effort, assuring 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. We registered and profiled all returns upon arrival to ensure adequate documentation and access to reintegration support programs, he continued.
The commissioner further remarked that the government is attempting to empower the returnees through various measures to assist them rebuild their life.
One of the returnees, Abdullahi Musa, expressed gratitude to the administration for allowing their return.
“I never thought I would see home again after the hardships we faced in Niger. I am happy for this opportunity to start afresh,” Musa said.
This new operation followed the repatriation of 702 stranded Nigerians from Niger in December 2024.
Officials stated that the voluntary returns are part of broader efforts to address migratory difficulties and provide sustainable solutions for displaced citizens.
Speaking on behalf of NCFRMI, Hajiya Liman, assured the returnees of continuous support.
“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.
Since then, the returnees have been given temporary housing, and as they become ready to reintegrate into society, they will have additional evaluations to ascertain their specific needs.