Niger crisis: FG evacuates 1,230 Nigerians

By Favour Ulebor

The Federal Government has successfully evacuated 1,230 stranded Nigerians from the Republic of Niger amid ongoing political instability and security concerns in the country, reaffirming its commitment to the protection and welfare of citizens abroad.

In a press statement signed by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the evacuation was carried out in two batches, with 708 returnees arriving on March 23, 2026, and another 522 arriving on March 29, 2026.

The ministry explained that the operation was facilitated in collaboration with relevant national and international partners, particularly the International Organization for Migration (IOM), whose logistical and technical support ensured a smooth process.

The exercise, it said, reflects Nigeria’s continued engagement with global partners in addressing migration challenges in a humane and orderly manner.

On arrival in Kano, the returnees were received by a multi-agency team comprising officials from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, the National Emergency Management Agency, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

Other agencies present included the Kano State Emergency Management Agency, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, as well as officials of the Kano and Katsina State Governments. The coordinated presence of these agencies ensured a smooth reception and processing of the evacuees.

Following their arrival, the returnees underwent profiling at the airport to ensure proper documentation and to support reintegration efforts. They were subsequently transported to the Immigration Training School, Kano, where they were provided with temporary accommodation.

During their stay at the facility, the evacuees received essential support, including meals, sanitary supplies, and basic medical care where necessary. After the completion of all procedures, they were discharged and reunited with their families.

The statement in parts, “The Ministry is pleased to report that, upon completion of the necessary processes, the evacuees were safely discharged and reunited with their respective families. This outcome reflects the Government’s emphasis not only on evacuation but also on the humane treatment and reintegration of returning citizens.

“This evacuation exercise is part of the Federal Government’s broader responsibility to safeguard Nigerians wherever they may be. It also demonstrates Nigeria’s proactive approach in responding to emerging situations that may pose risks to its citizens abroad. The Ministry remains vigilant and continues to monitor developments in the region while engaging diplomatically with relevant authorities to ensure the continued safety of Nigerians.

“The Ministry noted that the exercise highlights the Federal Government’s broader responsibility to safeguard Nigerians wherever they reside, adding that it remains committed to monitoring developments in the region and engaging relevant authorities to ensure the safety of its citizens.”

The Government also appreciated the Republic of Niger for its cooperation during the evacuation process, describing the support as a reflection of the strong bilateral relations between both countries and their shared commitment to humanitarian principles.

The Ministry further commended international partners, particularly the IOM and the International Committee of the Red Cross, for their contributions to the success of the operation, noting that such partnerships are vital in addressing migration and humanitarian issues.

While advising Nigerians living abroad to remain law-abiding and respect the laws of their host countries, the Ministry urged them to maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions and to register with the nearest embassy or consulate for timely assistance in emergencies.

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