FG Reaffirms Commitment To Protecting Refugees, Keeps Borders Open To Asylum Seekers
The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to keeping its borders open to asylum seekers and upholding the international principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the forced return of refugees to countries where they may face persecution or danger.
Speaking ahead of the 2026 World Refugee Day, the Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Tijani Ahmed, said Nigeria continues to host thousands of refugees from Cameroon and Niger Republic across states including Benue, Borno and Cross River.
Ahmed disclosed that about 3,000 Nigerian refugees voluntarily returned from Cameroon in January 2026, stressing that Nigerians abroad who wish to return home would only be repatriated voluntarily and not through forced measures.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of JDPCI called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to support displaced persons, emphasising that protection of refugees is a fundamental right and not a privilege.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) also expressed concern over growing pressure on the global right to seek asylum, urging countries to continue upholding the 1951 Refugee Convention and ensure access to protection for vulnerable populations.
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