IOM Nigeria: 71,000 Migrant Returns Since 2017 Mark Milestone

• The International Organisation for Migration Nigeria has facilitated the voluntary return and reintegration of over 71,000 Nigerian migrants since 2017.
• As of October 14, direct reintegration support was provided to more than 45,000 of these returnees.
• IOM Nigeria's Chief of Mission, Sharon Dimanche, highlighted the organization's shift from humanitarian response to long-term development and migration governance over 25 years.
• Key policy achievements include the adoption of the National Migration Policy and the integration of migration into the National Adaptation Plan on Climate Change.
• IOM calls for greater private sector involvement and domestic financing to address shrinking global funds and rising humanitarian demands.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria has overseen the voluntary return and reintegration of more than 71,000 Nigerian migrants since 2017, marking a significant milestone in its quarter-century presence in the country.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria has overseen the voluntary return and reintegration of more than 71,000 Nigerian migrants since 2017, marking a significant milestone in its quarter-century presence in the country. This extensive Nigeria voluntary repatriation program was highlighted by Sharon Dimanche, the Chief of Mission for IOM Nigeria, during a recent interview in Abuja. The organization, which established its office in 2001, has evolved its operational focus from primarily humanitarian aid to a broader strategy encompassing long-term development and comprehensive migration governance.

As of October 14, the International Organisation for Migration Nigeria confirmed that it had directly supported the reintegration of over 45,000 of these returnees. This substantial effort underscores the shifting priorities of the IOM, which now aims to foster a more holistic approach to human mobility within Nigeria. Dimanche noted that the past 25 years have been dedicated to establishing foundational systems, gathering evidence, and forging partnerships to address complex migration challenges.

Beyond direct assistance, the International Organisation for Migration Nigeria has played a crucial role in shaping the nation's migration landscape, extending its operations across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Significant policy advancements have been achieved in collaboration with the Nigerian government, including the formal adoption of the Nigeria National Migration Policy. Furthermore, migration considerations have been integrated into the National Adaptation Plan on Climate Change, reflecting a proactive stance on environmental factors influencing displacement.

Technological innovations have also been central to IOM's strategy, with the implementation of the Migration Information Data Analysis System (MIDAS) at key transit hubs. This system is designed to enhance border management and ensure safer movement for individuals. These initiatives collectively demonstrate a comprehensive effort to manage and understand migration patterns, moving beyond reactive measures to more structured and preventative approaches.

Despite these achievements, the IOM faces considerable challenges, particularly a global reduction in funding coupled with escalating humanitarian demands. Nigeria currently grapples with a complex internal displacement situation, hosting over 3.6 million internally displaced persons and an additional 2.7 million returnees. To address these financial shortfalls, Sharon Dimanche IOM has advocated for increased private sector engagement and robust domestic financing, emphasizing Nigeria's position as having the largest private sector on the African continent.

Looking ahead, the International Organisation for Migration Nigeria is setting its sights on a future defined by mobility, opportunity, and resilience. This involves expanding regular labour pathways, actively engaging the Nigerian diaspora, and building climate resilience to mitigate displacement before it occurs. Dimanche articulated a vision where the next 25 years will translate the established foundation into safer mobility, stronger communities, and greater opportunities, leveraging Nigeria's youthful population—60% of its 230 million people—as its most valuable asset. The goal is to harness the development potential inherent in migration, utilizing the aspirations of this young demographic.

Lawyers advising businesses or individuals on immigration, labour, or human rights in Nigeria should note the significant scale of migrant returns and reintegration efforts, as these activities influence national migration policy and may impact future labour mobility frameworks and compliance requirements for engaging with returnee populations or the diaspora. It also highlights areas for private sector involvement in development and humanitarian initiatives.

Source: Original reporting based on Daily Trust interview