Experts Urge Unified Action to Aid Struggling Migrant Returnees in Nigeria
Migration specialists are calling for a nationwide effort spanning government agencies, civil society, and local communities to deliver comprehensive support for Nigerian migrant returnees grappling with reintegration challenges.
L-R: Dr Sarah Adeyinka - Lead, Nigeria Study & Post-Doctoral Researcher, University of Amsterdam, Mrs Olubukola Rosanwo - director in the integration department of the ministry of youth and social development, Barrister Segun Adegoke - Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Migration & Homeland Security, Dr Oreoluwa Finnih - Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Kabir Adelaja-Sabre West Africa Officer, Lagos State Neighbourhood Agency, Mr. James Ikape- ED, Media Coalition & Awareness to Halt Human Trafficking.
At a recent dissemination event in Lagos, organised by postdoctoral researcher Sarah Adeyinka, stakeholders highlighted the array of social and economic hurdles facing returnees. The event, part of a broader reintegration project, brought attention to the urgent need for accessible and effective support systems to help returnees rebuild their lives.
Adeyinka emphasised that successful reintegration cannot rest solely on the government's shoulders.
“Communities and society at large must understand the difficulties returnees encounter. Public awareness and education are crucial to reducing, if not eliminating, the stigma and discrimination that returning migrants often face,” she stated.
She also underscored the acute shortage of mental health professionals in Nigeria, noting that the growing demand for mental health care far outpaces available resources.
“We should not stigmatise those dealing with mental health issues. Instead, we must ensure they receive the support they need,” Adeyinka added.
Alex Oturu, Southwest Zonal Coordinator for the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, reinforced the importance of a coordinated approach. He explained that the federal government, alongside ministries, departments, agencies, civil society organisations, and international partners, has established a national Standard Operating Procedure for return, readmission, and reintegration.
“Reintegration is not just a government responsibility; it requires everyone’s involvement to ensure that returnees-especially those who have been trafficked or forced to return-receive proper support,” Oturu said.
Amabelle Nwakanma, Director of Programmes at LEAP Africa and the Corporate Humanitarian Aid Foundation, pointed out that many returnees are unable to access reintegration benefits, often due to irregular migration routes. She cautioned Nigerians against taking dangerous, unauthorised migration paths, which can lead to exploitation, trafficking, and exclusion from vital support services.
“While everyone has the right to migrate, it should be done through legal channels. Irregular migration can devastate lives and have ripple effects on families back home,” Nwakanma warned.
Despite the existence of a comprehensive migration policy framework and support from international organisations, significant obstacles remain. These include poor coordination among ministries, insufficient grassroots involvement, and a disconnect between policy and practice. Stigmatisation and limited community engagement further complicate the reintegration process for returnees.
Experts agree that only through a collaborative, well-coordinated response can Nigeria ensure the safe, dignified, and sustainable return of its migrants, offering them a genuine chance to rebuild their lives.
[Sponsored]
Source: Legit.ng
