The reception of the migrants took place on Monday, October 23rd, 2023, at the Cargo terminal of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos, Southwest Nigeria. The Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Honourable Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, was represented by Mr. Alexander Oturu, the Southwest Zonal Coordinator.
Mr. Oturu emphasized that the integration of the returnees into various government programs and the reintegration programs of the UN Migration Agency, IOM, aligns with the President's Renewed Hope Agenda. This commitment ensures that the migrants receive the necessary support and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
Upon their arrival, the migrants were transported to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency camp, where a tripartite agreement between NCFRMI, IOM, and LASEMA provides temporary shelter for the returnees. Furthermore, onward transportation allowances will be provided to assist them in reaching their final destinations.
The composition of the group consisted of 32 males, 29 females, 44 children, and 3 infants, all of whom were onboard the IOM-chartered flight from Niger. To streamline the process, officers from the NCFRMI and the Nigerian Immigration Service thoroughly profiled the migrants. Additionally, several agencies like Port Health, FAAN, Federal Ministry of Labour, National Emergency Management Agency, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Child Protection Network, and Web of Hearts Foundation were present to provide assistance.
The Federal Government's commitment to the safe return and integration of Nigerian migrants showcases its dedication to addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable citizens. This collective effort signifies a step forward in promoting social cohesion, humanitarian values, and the well-being of all Nigerians.
