By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, made this known on June 22, 2026, in Abuja during the commemoration of World Refugee Day 2026. The event, themed “Until Everyone is Safe,” focused on improving protection, welfare, and economic opportunities for displaced populations under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Government Shifts Focus to Long-Term Solutions
Akume said the government is moving beyond emergency relief measures. He explained that current interventions connect humanitarian support with long-term development opportunities.
According to him, the Federal Government wants displaced persons to achieve self-reliance through education, agribusiness, livelihood programmes, and social protection initiatives.
“The Federal Government is deliberately shifting from palliatives to pathways by linking humanitarian response to development opportunities,” he said.
Nigeria Hosts Over 100,000 Refugees
The SGF disclosed that Nigeria currently hosts more than 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers. Most of them come from countries within the Lake Chad Basin region.
He added that millions of Nigerians remain displaced due to insecurity and other humanitarian challenges.
Akume noted that the government’s response rests on three major pillars:
- Protection
- Livelihood support
- Durable solutions
The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) coordinates these interventions.
Climate Change and Insecurity Increase Displacement
Akume highlighted the growing impact of climate change, insecurity, and prolonged conflicts on global displacement.
He stressed the need for stronger international cooperation to address these challenges. He also urged stakeholders to recognize the potential of refugees and displaced persons.
According to him, they deserve dignity, opportunity, and support rather than being viewed solely as victims.
Expansion of National Social Register
The Federal Government is expanding the National Social Register to include more vulnerable groups.
Akume explained that the initiative will capture displaced persons and host communities. As a result, authorities can provide targeted, transparent, and data-driven humanitarian assistance.
He said the expanded database will improve the delivery of support programmes while ensuring greater accountability.
Humanitarian Minister Calls for Stronger Support
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, praised the resilience of refugees worldwide.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to international humanitarian principles and global best practices.
Furthermore, he called on governments, development partners, humanitarian agencies, and host communities to increase support for refugees. He emphasized the importance of protection, durable solutions, and self-reliance opportunities.
NCFRMI Urges Practical Action
In his opening remarks, NCFRMI Federal Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, called for practical action beyond expressions of sympathy.
He stressed that protection should include:
- Quality education
- Healthcare services
- Decent shelter
- Legal identity
- Social services
- Meaningful participation in society
Ahmed said these measures are essential to preserving the rights and dignity of refugees and displaced persons.
Nigeria Reaffirms Refugee Protection Commitment
The World Refugee Day celebration reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to supporting refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons. Government officials pledged to expand protection programmes, improve livelihoods, and create sustainable opportunities that will help vulnerable populations rebuild their lives and contribute to national development.
