The Federal Government has successfully evacuated and repatriated 1,230 stranded Nigerian nationals from Niamey, Niger Republic, in a coordinated humanitarian operation that underscores Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. The evacuation, carried out in two batches, saw the first group of 708 returnees arrive in Kano on March 23, 2026, followed by a second batch of 522 on March 29, 2026. This swift and well-organized effort reflects the government’s proactive stance in ensuring the safety and dignity of Nigerians in crisis zones.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs led the operation in collaboration with national agencies and international partners, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which provided crucial logistical and technical support. The IOM’s involvement highlights Nigeria’s ongoing partnership with global humanitarian organizations to manage migration challenges effectively and humanely. The Ministry expressed deep appreciation for the cooperation extended by the Government of Niger, which facilitated the smooth execution of the evacuation process.
Upon arrival in Kano, the returnees were met by a multi-agency team comprising 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), the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Also present were representatives from the 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), and officials from the Kano and Katsina State Governments. Their collective presence ensured a seamless and secure reception process.
Each returnee underwent a profiling exercise at the airport to ensure proper documentation and to support future reintegration efforts. They were then transported to the Immigration Training School, Kano (ITSK), where temporary accommodation was arranged. During their stay, they received essential services such as meals, sanitary supplies, and basic medical care as needed. The Ministry confirmed that all evacuees were eventually discharged and reunited with their families, marking the successful conclusion of the operation.
This evacuation is part of the Federal Government’s broader responsibility to safeguard Nigerians abroad and demonstrates Nigeria’s readiness to respond to emerging threats. The Ministry remains vigilant and continues diplomatic engagements to monitor regional developments and protect Nigerian interests. The success of this mission also underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration and international cooperation in humanitarian crises.
Nigerian citizens abroad are urged to abide by the laws of their host countries, stay in regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions, and register with the nearest embassy or consulate to ensure they receive timely assistance in emergencies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, emphasized that such evacuations will remain a priority as long as Nigerians face risks overseas. The government’s swift action in this case sets a precedent for future humanitarian responses, reinforcing public confidence in its ability to protect its citizens abroad.
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