Over 60,300 Nigerian migrants make their way back home

The International Organisation for Migration, IOM, has reported that over 60,300 migrants have returned to Nigeria since 2017, aided by assisted voluntary return programmes, with many having survived exploitation and abuse along perilous migration routes.

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Ms Sharon Dimanche, IOM's Chief of Mission in Nigeria, revealed this information during a media engagement in Benin City on Saturday, highlighting the organisation's efforts to rescue migrants trapped in irregular migration routes and support their reintegration into society.

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According to Dimanche, IOM has facilitated the return of over 60,300 migrants to Nigeria since 2017, with many having endured exploitation and abuse during their journeys, and the organisation also provides economic reintegration, psychosocial support, and livelihood assistance to help them rebuild their lives.

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Migration poses a significant humanitarian and development challenge in Nigeria, with around 3.7 million internally displaced persons in need of shelter, water, protection, and basic services, underscoring the importance of supporting these individuals, Dimanche noted.

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IOM's priorities in Nigeria include saving lives during migration crises, helping displaced people rebuild, and promoting safe migration pathways, with a focus on collaboration between governments, international organisations, communities, and the private sector.

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Dimanche warned that many young Nigerians still embark on risky migration journeys due to limited economic opportunities, and stressed that migration should be a safe, legal, and dignified process, rather than a desperate gamble with one's life.

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When properly managed, migration can significantly contribute to development, but this requires cooperation between various stakeholders, including governments, international organisations, communities, and the private sector, Dimanche said.

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Dimanche acknowledged the crucial role of state governments and partners in supporting reintegration programmes and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing irregular migration, and noted that millions of Nigerians have been reached through campaigns educating communities on the risks of irregular migration and safer migration opportunities.

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Despite progress, the needs of migrants remain pressing, and Dimanche called for sustained support from partners and donors to strengthen migration management and reintegration programmes across Nigeria.