By Gabriel Ameh
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the successful evacuation and safe return of 1,230 stranded Nigerian nationals from the Republic of Niger, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
The humanitarian operation, carried out in collaboration with national and international partners, ensured the voluntary repatriation of Nigerians in two phases. The first batch of 708 returnees arrived on March 23, 2026, while the second group of 522 Nigerians returned on March 29, 2026.
This was container in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
According to the statement, the exercise was supported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), whose logistical and technical assistance played a key role in ensuring the smooth and coordinated evacuation process. The collaboration highlights Nigeria’s continued engagement with global partners in addressing migration challenges in a safe and orderly manner.
Upon arrival in Kano, the returnees were received by a multi-agency team including officials from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), among others.
Also present were representatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Department of State Services (DSS), as well as officials from the Kano and Katsina State Governments.
Following standard procedures, the returnees underwent profiling at the airport to ensure proper documentation and to support reintegration efforts. They were later moved to the Immigration Training School in Kano, where they received temporary accommodation, meals, sanitary supplies, and basic medical care.
After the completion of all necessary processes, the evacuees were safely reunited with their families, marking a successful end to the operation.
The Ministry emphasized that the evacuation reflects the Federal Government’s broader responsibility to safeguard Nigerians wherever they are, while also demonstrating its readiness to respond proactively to emerging situations affecting citizens abroad.
It further appreciated the Government of the Republic of Niger for its cooperation, noting that such collaboration strengthens bilateral relations and promotes regional stability.
The Ministry also acknowledged the support of international partners, particularly the IOM and ICRC, whose contributions were instrumental to the success of the operation.
Nigerian citizens abroad are advised to remain law-abiding, respect host country regulations, and stay in contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions. They are also encouraged to register with the nearest embassy or consulate to ensure timely assistance in emergencies.
