Manny Ita –
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has disclosed that more than 60,300 Nigerians have been assisted to voluntarily return home since 2017 after becoming stranded along irregular migration routes across North Africa and parts of Europe.
The agency said the assisted voluntary return programme forms part of its broader humanitarian intervention aimed at supporting migrants who face severe risks while attempting irregular journeys in search of economic opportunities abroad. Many of the returnees, according to the organisation, had encountered difficult living conditions, exploitation, and other dangers along migration corridors before opting to return to Nigeria.
IOM officials explained that the initiative is implemented in collaboration with the Nigerian government and other international partners to ensure safe and dignified return for migrants who request assistance. “Since 2017, more than 60,300 Nigerian migrants have been supported to voluntarily return home after finding themselves stranded along dangerous migration routes,” the organisation said.
The agency noted that its work does not end with transportation back to the country, adding that significant emphasis is placed on helping returnees rebuild their lives through structured reintegration programmes. These programmes include vocational training, small business support, counselling and community-based assistance designed to help migrants resettle and become economically productive.
According to IOM representatives, reintegration support remains essential in addressing the root causes that push many young people toward irregular migration. “Reintegration assistance is critical to ensuring that returnees can rebuild their lives with dignity and reduce the likelihood of re-migration under unsafe conditions,” the organisation said.
The agency also emphasised the need for sustained awareness campaigns to educate prospective migrants about the risks associated with irregular migration routes, particularly those crossing the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.
Migration experts say the programme has played a significant humanitarian role over the years by rescuing thousands of Nigerians from precarious conditions abroad while supporting their transition back into society. They added that continued collaboration between international organisations, government agencies and local communities will be crucial to strengthening reintegration outcomes and addressing the socio-economic drivers of irregular migration.
