In a coordinated humanitarian effort, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Kano Operations Office, on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, received 146 Nigerian migrant returnees from Agadez, Niger Republic. The returnees arrived at the Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) at about 1:00 p.m. aboard an Air Sky Mali flight.
This operation is part of the agency’s continuous support program aimed at facilitating the voluntary return and reintegration of Nigerian nationals stranded in transit countries, particularly in the Sahel and North Africa region.
According to NEMA, the returnees comprised 36 adult males, 45 adult females, 33 male children, and 32 female children. Upon arrival, all returnees underwent a structured reception process, which included registration, medical screening, and needs assessment to determine appropriate support services.
The agency, in collaboration with other partners, provided immediate humanitarian assistance to the returnees. These included food and water, medical attention for the sick and vulnerable, ambulance services for urgent cases, luggage handling, and onward transportation arrangements to facilitate their return to their respective home communities.
Officials from relevant organizations including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), and security agencies were also on ground to support the reception process and ensure a smooth and dignified return experience for the migrants.
The NEMA Kano Operations Office emphasized that the reception exercise reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to the protection of citizens’ rights, regardless of their migration status, and aligns with ongoing efforts to combat irregular migration and human trafficking.
NEMA further appealed to returnees to take advantage of government reintegration programs and to contribute meaningfully to national development.
This reception brings to light the continuous challenge of irregular migration and reinforces the need for sustained public awareness, stronger border management, and multi-sectoral interventions to address the root causes of unsafe migration.
