The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the safe return of 147 Nigerian migrants who voluntarily repatriated from Agadez, Niger Republic, a notorious migration hub in the Sahel region, with the assistance of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
In a statement released on Wednesday, NEMA said the returnees arrived at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport at 12:48 p.m. on Monday, June 16.
The operation, part of a broader humanitarian initiative by IOM in partnership with Nigerian authorities, aims to provide stranded migrants with a dignified path back home and a foundation for reintegration.
The group comprised 143 adult males, one adult female, and three children — one male and two females. Upon arrival, the returnees were relocated to Badala Hotel in Kano for health screening, profiling, and reintegration processing, which continued into Tuesday, June 17.
One returnee required immediate medical attention and was promptly attended to by the Nigerian Red Cross, who were on standby as part of the reception protocol.
Agadez, situated in northern Niger, is a critical juncture for irregular migration routes to North Africa and Europe. Many migrants become stranded there due to harsh desert conditions, trafficking, or failed journeys.
In response, international organisations like IOM, with support from national governments, have increased interventions to ensure migrants’ voluntary, safe, and humane return.
“This operation demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to providing stranded Nigerians with viable alternatives and ensuring their smooth reintegration,” a NEMA spokesperson said. “It also reflects our ongoing collaboration with global partners to address the root causes of irregular migration.”
