FG Evacuates 1,230 Stranded Nigerians from Niger, Reaffirms Commitment to Citizens Abroad
Oru Leonard
Abuja, April 1, 2026 — The Federal Government has successfully evacuated and repatriated 1,230 stranded Nigerian nationals from Niger Republic, in a coordinated humanitarian operation led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the evacuation exercise underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to the protection, welfare, and dignity of Nigerians abroad.
The returnees were brought back in two batches, with 708 individuals arriving on March 23, while the second batch of 522 arrived on March 29, 2026.
The Ministry disclosed that the operation was carried out in collaboration with key national and international partners, notably the International Organization for Migration (IOM), whose logistical and technical support ensured a seamless process.
Upon arrival in Kano, the evacuees were received by a multi-agency team comprising 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).
Other stakeholders present included officials 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), as well as representatives of the Kano and Katsina State Governments.
The Ministry commended the coordinated efforts of all participating agencies, noting that their professionalism and dedication ensured a smooth reception and processing of the returnees.
Following arrival procedures, the evacuees underwent profiling at the airport for proper documentation and reintegration planning. They were subsequently transported to the Immigration Training School, Kano, where they received temporary accommodation, meals, sanitary supplies, and basic medical care.
The government confirmed that all returnees have since been safely discharged and reunited with their families, reflecting its commitment not only to evacuation but also to the humane reintegration of citizens.
The Ministry emphasized that the exercise forms part of the Federal Government’s broader responsibility to safeguard Nigerians wherever they reside, while also demonstrating a proactive response to emerging risks abroad.
It also expressed appreciation to the government of Niger Republic for its cooperation, describing the gesture as a reflection of strong bilateral ties and a shared commitment to regional stability and humanitarian values.
Additionally, the Ministry acknowledged the critical support of international partners, particularly IOM and ICRC, in ensuring the success of the operation.
Nigerians living abroad were advised to remain law-abiding, comply with the regulations of their host countries, and maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions.
The Ministry further urged citizens to register with the nearest embassy or consulate to enable timely assistance during emergencies.
