The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) has revealed that over 250,000 Nigerians are currently living as refugees across various countries, including Libya, Cameroon, South Sudan, Chad, and Niger.
In contrast, Nigeria is hosting approximately 135,000 refugees within its borders.
Federal Commissioner of the Commission, Tijani Ahmed, disclosed these figures on Thursday during a road walk in Abuja to mark the 2025 World Refugee Day.
He noted that a significant number of Nigerian refugees—over 125,000—are currently residing in Cameroon alone.
“We are currently hosting no fewer than 135,000 refugees in Nigeria. At the same time, there are more than 250,000 Nigerians living as refugees in other countries,” Ahmed stated.
“The largest concentration is in Cameroon, followed by Chad, Niger, Libya, South Sudan, and other parts of the world.”
Ahmed also highlighted the federal government’s ongoing support for the Commission, adding that President Bola Tinubu has shown strong commitment to assisting migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Addressing concerns about a possible deportation of Nigerians from the United States, the Commissioner clarified that while no official communication has been received from the U.S. government, Nigeria has taken proactive steps by forming a committee to prepare for any potential developments.
“For now, it remains a policy statement. However, the Nigerian government has acted swiftly by setting up a committee to address the situation should it arise,” he explained.
“We are fully prepared to receive our citizens and provide them with appropriate support and means of livelihood. There is no cause for concern.”
Meanwhile, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reiterated its commitment to supporting refugees and displaced persons across the region.
Speaking at the event, Senior Humanitarian Officer at the ECOWAS Commission, Alozie Godfrey, said the Commission allocated $9 million last year to assist refugees and people in need across its 15 member countries. Nigeria received $1.7 million from that allocation.
“This year, we remain focused on supporting refugees and IDPs across West Africa, especially in Nigeria where our headquarters is based,” Godfrey said.
“We continue to work closely with our partners to ensure displaced persons are protected and assisted, despite our limited resources.”
He reaffirmed ECOWAS’ dedication to refugee welfare, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration to address humanitarian challenges in the region.
