NEMA Welcomes 139 Nigerian Returnees from Niger Republic in Coordinated Repatriation

Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has received 139 Nigerian nationals who were repatriated from Agadez, Niger Republic, as part of a joint initiative involving international partners.

The returnees arrived through Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in northern Nigeria before being escorted to NEMA facilities in Yola and Abuja for thorough screening, medical evaluation, and socio-economic reintegration assistance.

This group included families with children and elderly individuals, many of whom cited economic hardship and lack of job opportunities as reasons for migration. NEMA personnel provided immediate humanitarian support, distributing food, water, blankets, and basic healthcare services. After processing, returnees were connected to their home communities and offered referral services for long-term support, including livelihood training and psychosocial counseling where necessary.

NEMA emphasized that this repatriation reflects Nigeria’s commitment to safe, voluntary return and reintegration. Authorities confirmed coordination with the International Organization for Migration and Niger’s migration agencies, ensuring compliance with protocols to protect returnees’ rights. This initiative is part of broader efforts to manage migration flows across West Africa, where security, climate shocks, and economic distress drive cross-border movement.

Plans are underway to facilitate additional repatriation flights in coming months, with focus on vulnerable groups and citizens who wish to return voluntarily. Nigerian leadership views this operation as a demonstration of responsibility and solidarity with nationals abroad, even as dialogue continues with regional authorities to improve cross-border labor mobility frameworks.