NEMA receives Nigerian returnees from Niger Republic, ensuring safe, dignified reintegration with support from IOM and federal agencies

The NEMA receives Nigerian returnees operation has brought 150 stranded citizens safely back from Agadez, Niger Republic, marking another successful phase in the country’s humanitarian reintegration efforts.

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The National Emergency Management Agency confirmed on Friday that the returnees arrived at the Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, at about 5:20 a.m. on Thursday under the Assisted Voluntary Return initiative supported by the International Organisation for Migration.

According to NEMA, the collaborative exercise involved the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, and the Nigerian Immigration Service, which immediately began biometric registration and documentation to ensure a smooth reintegration process.

After registration, the returnees were conveyed to Bizare Hotel Luxury Apartments for profiling and accommodation on Friday.

The agency disclosed that the group consisted of 88 adult males, 32 adult females, 14 male children and 16 female children.

In a statement posted on its official X handle, NEMA said the returnees were received in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, dignified and humane return for Nigerians stranded abroad.

“The returnees were provided with immediate humanitarian assistance, including food and potable water, medical care, ambulance services, luggage handling, and logistics support to ensure a smooth and orderly reception exercise,” the statement read.

The NEMA receives Nigerian returnees programme has become a vital component of Nigeria’s migration management strategy, offering protection, reintegration, and welfare support to citizens who find themselves stranded in foreign countries.

The agency praised the “collaborative spirit” of all partners involved, noting that the entire operation was conducted efficiently and centred on the dignity and wellbeing of the returnees.

Over the years, NEMA and the International Organisation for Migration have worked closely to facilitate the safe return of thousands of Nigerians from countries across North Africa and the Sahel region.

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With the latest batch, the Federal Government reaffirmed its resolve to maintain a humane, structured approach to migration, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of circumstance, is treated with compassion and respect upon returning home.