60,000 Nigerians Return Home as IOM Expands Lifeline for Stranded Migrants

60,000 Nigerians Return Home as IOM Expands Lifeline for Stranded Migrants

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

No fewer than 60,000 Nigerians who were once stranded along dangerous migration routes across West and Central Africa have now safely returned home, marking a major milestone in humanitarian efforts led by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The returnees are being supported through structured reintegration programmes designed to help them rebuild their lives, regain stability, and restore dignity after enduring harsh conditions abroad.

IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, disclosed this in a statement issued in Maiduguri, Borno State, noting that the initiative has been ongoing since 2017. She explained that the programme provides tailored support to migrants as they transition from uncertainty to self-reliance.

“Through our reintegration support, migrants are empowered to rebuild their livelihoods and move forward with dignity,” she said, adding that many beneficiaries are already making meaningful progress in their communities.

Dimanche highlighted the recent return of 181 Nigerians from Libya on March 10, 2026, describing it as a significant step that reflects the strong collaboration between IOM, the Federal Government of Nigeria, the European Union, and its member states.

She noted that for many returnees, the journey back home represents a turning point, away from exploitation, abuse, and life-threatening migration experiences, and toward a future anchored on recovery and opportunity.

Beyond facilitating returns, the IOM has provided reintegration assistance to over 38,000 Nigerians. The support includes vocational training, business start-up grants, educational opportunities, and psychosocial care aimed at helping returnees reintegrate into society successfully.

“The return of migrants is not the end of their story,” Dimanche emphasized. “With the right support, they can rebuild their lives, grow, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

She added that successful reintegration not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens communities and supports long-term development.

Data from the organization shows that in 2025 alone, 14,787 Nigerians were assisted to return home safely, while more than 2,500 have already benefited from the programme in 2026.

Dimanche also raised concern over the vulnerability of many migrants, revealing that a significant number of those assisted are survivors of human trafficking, exploitation, and severe abuse along migration routes.

She stressed the need for sustained, route-based interventions that ensure access to protection services, safe return pathways, and continuous reintegration support for affected individuals.

The IOM reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners to provide life-saving assistance and create opportunities for returnees to rebuild their futures, one life at a time.