Efforts are underway by the Nigerian government to safely repatriate approximately 15,000 citizens currently stuck in countries such as Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and beyond, according to Tijani Ahmed, the head of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, Ahmed highlighted the government’s resolve to bring these individuals home with dignity.
He revealed that, in addition to those abroad, over six million Nigerians are internally displaced, while more than 100,000 refugees from other countries are currently residing in Nigeria.
He affirmed that managing both local and foreign displaced populations is a critical function of the commission. Ahmed also lauded President Bola Tinubu for the administration’s backing of these humanitarian initiatives.
Ahmed further disclosed that Nigeria, in its role as chair of the Rabat Process since January 2025, will host its inaugural thematic meeting on May 13–14.
With more than 100 delegates from 57 partner nations expected, the summit will explore how youth-driven innovation and education can influence migration trends.
He emphasised the benefits of participating in global platforms like the Rabat Process, which offer Nigeria the opportunity to improve migration oversight and foster mutual partnerships with other countries.
Ahmed also stressed the importance of sensitising young Nigerians on safe migration practices, urging stronger advocacy against irregular migration and calling for collective support from stakeholders, especially the media, in managing migration issues effectively.
