The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) says it has rescued more than 65,500 stranded Nigerian migrants over the past nine years, highlighting the growing challenge of irregular migration involving Nigerian nationals.
The agency disclosed this at a migration reporting workshop held in Lagos, where it also revealed that over 30,000 returnees have received psychological, social and economic support aimed at helping them reintegrate into society and rebuild their livelihoods.
According to the IOM, efforts are being intensified to promote safe and legal migration pathways, while also encouraging greater public awareness of the risks associated with irregular migration.
The organisation stressed the need for responsible reporting on migration issues, noting that accurate information plays a key role in preventing vulnerable individuals from falling victim to dangerous migration routes.
“We’ll have more on the numbers, the human stories, and what is being done to curb dangerous migration routes,” the agency said in a follow-up statement.
The development comes amid a global crackdown on illegal migration, with several countries tightening immigration enforcement measures in recent years.
In the United States, authorities have stepped up deportation efforts targeting undocumented migrants, including Nigerians, as part of broader immigration enforcement policies.
Data from the Department of Homeland Security indicated that hundreds of Nigerian nationals are among those facing final removal orders or have been flagged due to criminal convictions, as part of ongoing immigration control measures.
Officials said the actions are aimed at addressing irregular migration as well as removing individuals with serious criminal records from host countries.
Migration experts continued to warn that unsafe migration routes expose individuals to exploitation, trafficking and life-threatening conditions, particularly for young people seeking better economic opportunities abroad.
The IOM reiterated its commitment to supporting returnees and strengthening systems that promote safe, orderly and regular migration channels across Nigeria and other countries of origin.
The agency also called for stronger collaboration between governments, media organisations and civil society in addressing the root causes of irregular migration.
