By Emmanuel Obisue
The Federal Government has successfully evacuated 1,230 stranded Nigerians from the Republic of Niger.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who said the humanitarian operation was carried out in collaboration with relevant national and international partners.
“The evacuation operation, facilitated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with relevant national and international partners, led to the voluntary repatriation of a total of 1,230 Nigerians.
The returnees were transported in two batches: the first group of 708 individuals arrived on March 23, 2026, while the second batch of 522 individuals arrived on March 29, 2026,” he stated.
The Ministry noted that the operation was conducted in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), whose logistical and technical support ensured a smooth and efficient process.
On arrival in Kano, the returnees were received by a multi-agency team, including officials of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Other stakeholders present included the Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Department of State Services (DSS), as well as representatives of the Kano and Katsina State governments.
The coordinated reception, the Ministry said, underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing humanitarian situations. It commended all participating organisations for their professionalism and dedication.
Following their arrival, the evacuees underwent profiling at the airport to ensure proper documentation before being moved to the Immigration Training School, Kano, where temporary accommodation was provided. They were also given essential support, including food, sanitary materials, and basic medical care.
The Ministry confirmed that after completing all necessary procedures, the returnees were safely reunited with their families, reflecting the government’s commitment not only to evacuation but also to humane reintegration.
It added that the exercise forms part of broader efforts to safeguard Nigerians abroad, noting that authorities remain vigilant and are closely monitoring developments in the region while maintaining diplomatic engagement to ensure citizens’ safety.
The Ministry also expressed appreciation to the Government of Niger for its cooperation, describing it as a reflection of the strong bilateral ties and shared commitment to humanitarian values between both countries.
It further acknowledged the contributions of international partners, particularly the IOM and ICRC, whose support was instrumental to the success of the operation.
Nigerians living abroad were advised to remain law-abiding, comply with the laws of their host countries, and maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions. The Ministry also urged citizens to register with the nearest embassy or consulate to enable timely assistance in emergencies.
