The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), has said that there are at least 10 million migrants currently residing in Nigeria.
Federal Commissioner of NCFRMI, Tijani Aliyu Ahmed, who stated this in Abuja on Wednesday after a walk in commemoration of the 2024 International Migration Day, also said about 20 million Nigeria migrants are scattered around the world.
Aliyu Ahmed said the migrants are celebrated in light of their contributions to the country through the realization of annual remittances, through the migrants that are living in the diaspora.
He explained that last year alone, the Nigerian migrants were able to realize not less than $23 billion as remittances in this country and this industry is used for the development of Nigerians.
Aliyu said Nigeria was preparing to take over the leadership of the Rabat Process next year, soliciting support from everyone within and outside the country for the country to succeed in the governance of migration internationally.
According to him, the theme of this year’s International Migrants Day – Honouring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights – helps remind everyone of the positive contributions migrants make to societies and countries that host them.
He said the event also aims to enlighten people on the challenges that migrants face in achieving their full potential and capabilities, and the urgent need for collective action to ensure that migration is as safe as possible.
According to the United Nations, around 281 million people – 3.6% of the global population – are international migrants.
Despite political commitments and media attention, migrant deaths are on the rise: 2023 saw the highest annual death toll on record, with over 8500 deaths.Migrant populations also face mental health challenges. As events over which they have no control disrupt their livelihoods and communities, many migrants experience fear, grief, uncertainty and helplessness.
Migrants can also face stigma, discrimination and violence from host populations, undermining their sense of belonging and cultural identity.