The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has validated the Revised 2024 National Migration Policy and its Integrated Implementation Plan.
The validation ceremony, held in Abuja, marked the conclusion of an inclusive, multi-stakeholder consultation process involving government bodies, international partners, and civil society organizations.
The updated policy reflects Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening migration governance, aligning national strategies with global frameworks including the Global Compact for Migration, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the African Union’s Migration Policy Framework.
IOM Nigeria’s Chief of Mission, Sharon Dimanche, commended the process: “This policy is the product of rigorous consultation and collaboration. It reaffirms Nigeria’s leadership in building inclusive and globally-aligned migration systems.”
With global migration trends rapidly evolving—and remittances to Nigeria totaling an estimated $19.5 billion in 2023—the revised policy seeks to address both national and international dynamics.
Director General of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, emphasized the need for adaptable frameworks to address irregular migration, climate-induced displacement, and the protection of vulnerable populations.
Ahmed noted that the review process was guided by a 19-member committee using the UN Network on Migration’s structured six-step approach.
Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, called for practical application: “This policy must go beyond paper. We must actively use it to prevent exploitation and safeguard Nigerian migrants.”
The revised policy outlines key priorities, including inter-agency coordination, migration data governance, diaspora engagement, climate resilience, and safe legal migration pathways.
Dimanche added, “Effective coordination is essential. Nigeria has shown that harmonising cross-sectoral efforts is both possible and impactful.”
The policy was supported through IOM technical assistance and funding from the Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund. With validation now complete, the policy awaits Federal Executive Council approval to formally guide Nigeria’s migration agenda.
