After months of hardship, 140 Nigerians stranded in Sudan have finally returned home, thanks to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) under its Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) programme.
Among the returnees were 64 women, 36 children, and four infants, along with individuals facing health challenges. Their chartered flight—the first since the Sudan crisis began—landed at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on February 27, where they were received by Nigerian government officials.
Upon arrival, they received medical care, counselling, and mental health support. IOM also pledged additional reintegration assistance tailored to their needs.
One of the returnees, Bashir, shared his emotional ordeal:
“After the war, we found ourselves out in the open with no food or shelter. Things kept getting worse, and there was no hope as the war continued. We are grateful to be back home.”
Since the Sudan conflict erupted in 2023, over 12 million people have been displaced, including migrants who lost their homes and documents.
IOM Sudan Chief of Mission, Mohamed Refaat, highlighted the growing crisis:
“Migrants in Sudan have been stranded as the humanitarian situation worsens. For many, voluntary return remains the best option for a safe journey home.”
The repatriation was coordinated by the Nigerian and Sudanese governments, alongside key agencies like the Nigerian Embassy in Sudan and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons.
Ms. Paola Pace, IOM Nigeria’s acting Chief of Mission, praised the effort, saying:
“We are proud to see the impact of collaboration in saving lives. IOM remains committed to ensuring no migrant is left behind.”
The mission was made possible through support from the European Union’s Migrant Protection, Return, and Reintegration Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa.
