In a bid to address the growing challenges of displacement and irregular migration, the Nigerian government has partnered with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to revise its National Migration Policy. This collaboration was unveiled during a Technical Working Group session on Migration and Development held in Abuja, where alarming figures revealed that 6.1 million Nigerians remain displaced due to insecurity and natural disasters.
Aliyu Tijani, the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), highlighted the critical need for a strategic framework to tackle the ongoing crisis. Speaking at the event, Tijani stated, “Displacement is a major issue today, and we are committed to removing displaced persons from camps through the provision of skill acquisition and long-term support systems.”
The revised migration policy seeks to curb irregular movement within the country and promote sustainable solutions for affected individuals. A key focus of the session was the review of the Zero Draft of the National Migration Policy, initially developed in 2022. Tijani noted that the input of all relevant thematic groups was crucial to creating a comprehensive policy that will guide Nigeria’s migration strategy for the next five years.
The objectives of the session included:
Reviewing and refining the Zero Draft of the National Migration Policy.
Engaging stakeholders in constructive discussions to enhance the policy framework.
Ensuring that the revised policy aligns with Nigeria’s migration dynamics and national interests.
Tijani further emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, “The success of this review depends on active participation and collaboration. Your expertise is invaluable, and I encourage everyone to contribute meaningfully to the discussions.”
As Nigeria grapples with displacement on a large scale, this renewed focus on migration policy represents a significant step toward addressing the root causes and creating a more resilient framework for managing migration and displacement across the country.
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