The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed that over 10 million migrants currently reside in the country.
This revelation was made by the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Hon. Tijani Aliyu Ahmed.
He disclosed this information while addressing the public in Abuja on December 18, 2024, during a special walk to commemorate the 2024 International Migrants Day.
Hon. Aliyu Ahmed’s statement highlights the significant role migrants play in Nigeria’s social and economic landscape.
The number of migrants in the country, he said, is a testament to Nigeria’s growing international significance as a host nation.
Hon. Aliyu also noted that Nigerian migrants living abroad are equally contributing to the nation’s progress, with over 20 million Nigerians scattered across the world.
“We have no less than 10 million migrants in Nigeria, and over 20 million Nigerians abroad. These Nigerians are contributing immensely to the development of the country,” he said.
The commissioner emphasized that the contributions of both foreign and Nigerian migrants go beyond mere numbers.
He highlighted the important role migrants play in technological transfer to Nigeria, which helps in the development of various sectors within the country.
“One of the key reasons we celebrate International Migrants Day is the technological transfer brought by these migrants,” Aliyu explained.
He continued, “Migrants are contributing to the country’s development through the remittances they send back home. Last year alone, Nigeria received no less than $23 billion in remittances from Nigerians abroad.”
These remittances, according to Aliyu, have been used to support various sectors, contributing to the economic growth of the nation.
Nigeria is also preparing for a key leadership role in the international governance of migration.
Aliyu stated that the country will take over the leadership of the Rabat Process next year, which focuses on facilitating migration and development across Africa and Europe.
He called for support from both domestic and international partners to ensure that Nigeria successfully governs migration on the global stage.
Hon. Aliyu further reflected on the theme of this year’s International Migrants Day: “Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights.”
This theme, he explained, serves as a reminder of the positive contributions migrants make to host countries while highlighting the challenges they face.
Many migrants struggle to achieve their full potential due to the barriers they encounter, including discrimination and violence.
Aliyu urged the global community to take collective action to ensure migration is made as safe as possible for everyone involved.
The need for safe migration has become increasingly urgent in light of the growing number of people displaced from their home countries.
Many individuals are forced to leave their homes due to various factors such as conflict, political instability, economic hardship, and natural disasters.
Climate change, in particular, has become a significant driving force behind migration.
According to the United Nations, around 281 million people worldwide, or 3.6% of the global population, are international migrants.
Unfortunately, migrant deaths are on the rise. In 2023, the world recorded the highest annual migrant death toll on record, with over 8,500 lives lost.
The perilous journeys that many migrants embark on in search of better opportunities often come with high risks.
This troubling trend is compounded by the mental health challenges that many migrants face. Displacement from their home countries brings uncertainty, fear, grief, and feelings of helplessness.
Migrants often face stigmatization and discrimination in their host countries, making it difficult for them to feel a sense of belonging.
Such challenges further undermine their ability to integrate into society and reach their full potential.
Despite these hurdles, Hon. Aliyu Ahmed expressed optimism about the role of migrants in building a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria.
He said, “Migrants are an essential part of our country’s development, and their contributions must be celebrated.”
The Federal Government’s recognition of the 10 million migrants in Nigeria and the broader global migrant community on International Migrants Day serves as an important reminder of the need for inclusive policies and greater solidarity.
