Nigeria Hosts Over 100,000 Refugees and Asylum Seekers

The Federal Government of Nigeria disclosed that the country is currently hosting over 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from countries within the Lake Chad Basin region. This announcement was made by Georg Akum, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, during a commemoration event for World Refugee Day on June 20, 2026.

Akum stated that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to protecting and empowering refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) as part of its Renewed Hope Agenda. He outlined the government's focus on three key pillars: protecting livelihoods, implementing durable solutions, and integrating humanitarian assistance with long-term development strategies.

The government aims to ensure that displaced persons not only survive but thrive, with access to livelihood opportunities, education, and social protection programs. Dr. Bernard Doro, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, commended the resilience of refugees and reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to international humanitarian principles.