FG evacuates 1,230 stranded Nigerians from Niger…

The Federal Government has successfully evacuated 1,230 stranded Nigerians from neighboring Niger, strengthening its commitment to protecting citizens abroad amid emerging regional challenges.

The evacuation, coordinated by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, involved the voluntary repatriation of Nigerians stranded in Niamey, the capital of the Republic of Niger.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by the ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the returnees arrived in Nigeria in two separate batches. The first group of 708 Nigerians was welcomed on March 23, 2026, while the second group of 522 arrived on March 29, bringing the total number of displaced people to 1,230.

He said the humanitarian operation was conducted in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration, whose logistical and technical support ensured the smooth movement and reception of the returnees.

Upon arrival in Kano, the displaced were welcomed by a coordinated team of government agencies and humanitarian partners with the task of ensuring an orderly reception and immediate support for the returning citizens.

Agencies involved in the reception include the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, the National Emergency Management Agency, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps.

Other participating entities included the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, as well as officials from the Kano and Katsina state governments.

The returnees underwent profiling at the airport to document their details and enable adequate reintegration support. They were later transferred to the Kano Immigration Training School, where they were provided with temporary accommodation, meals, medical care and other basic necessities.

Authorities said the evacuees were later discharged after completing necessary procedures and reuniting with their families.

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The Ministry noted that the evacuation highlights the broader responsibility of the Federal Government to ensure the safety and dignity of Nigerians wherever they are, particularly in situations involving humanitarian risks.

He also expressed appreciation to the Government of Niger for its cooperation throughout the evacuation process, underlining that such cooperation reflects the enduring diplomatic and humanitarian ties between the two countries.

The ministry also praised international partners, particularly the International Organization for Migration and the International Committee of the Red Cross, for their continued support in addressing migration and humanitarian challenges.

Nigerian citizens residing abroad were urged to respect the laws of host countries and maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions to facilitate timely assistance in emergency situations.

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