FG Repatriates 390 Stranded Nigerian Migrants From Niger Republic

The Federal Government has repatriated a fresh batch of 390 stranded Nigerian migrants from Niamey, Niger Republic.

This is part of the Nigerian government’s efforts to assist citizens in returning home and rebuilding their lives.

The group, consisting of 387 men, two women, and an infant, arrived at the Nigeria Immigration Training School in Kano early Tuesday morning around 1:05 a.m.

This marks the third voluntary repatriation operation organized by the Nigerian Mission in Niamey in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

During a reception for the returnees in Kano, Tijjani Ahmed, Federal Commissioner for the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), emphasized the government’s commitment to helping returnees reintegrate.

Represented by the Kano State Field Coordinator, Hajiya Liman, Ahmed 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 also credited the success of the operation to strong collaboration among agencies like NCFRMI, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and IOM. Upon arrival, the migrants were registered and profiled to ensure they could access reintegration support programs.

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 government plans to assist the returnees in rebuilding their lives through various empowerment initiatives.

Abdullahi Musa, one of the returnees, expressed gratitude, saying, “I never thought I would see home again after the hardships we faced in Niger. I am grateful for this opportunity to start afresh.”

This latest operation follows the return of 702 Nigerians from Niger in December 2024. Officials explained that these repatriations are part of a broader effort to address migration challenges and provide sustainable solutions for displaced citizens.

Hajiya Liman reassured the returnees of continuous support, stating, “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.”

The returnees are now housed in temporary accommodations and will undergo further assessments to determine the assistance they need to reintegrate into society.

KanyiDaily recalls that Niger Republic recently accused Nigeria, along with other ECOWAS nations, of conspiring with France to destabilize the country.