Juliet Ezeh
The Federal Government has intensified its response to irregular migration with the successful repatriation of 522 Nigerians stranded in Niger Republic, in a coordinated operation involving multiple agencies and international partners.
The returnees were received in Kano by officials of the National Emergency Management Agency following their arrival at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport.
Authorities said the operation was carried out under existing migration frameworks, with support from the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other stakeholders, as part of ongoing efforts to manage the movement and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.
The group, comprising adults and children from different parts of the country, underwent documentation and profiling upon arrival, while humanitarian support services were immediately activated to address their needs.
Officials confirmed that medical teams, including personnel from the Nigerian Red Cross, were deployed to provide healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable individuals requiring urgent attention.
Relief materials such as food items, bedding, and personal care kits were also distributed to ease the transition process before their eventual relocation to their respective states.
Government representatives noted that the exercise reflects Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring the safe return and reintegration of its citizens, while also strengthening institutional collaboration in migration management.
They added that the operation aligns with national migration policies aimed at promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration, while discouraging unsafe routes that expose citizens to significant risks.
The latest repatriation comes amid continued efforts by authorities to address the challenges associated with cross-border migration, including increased public sensitisation and inter-agency coordination.
Officials say similar operations will continue as part of broader strategies to safeguard Nigerians and improve migration governance across the region.
