Nigeria and Turkey Launch Program for Undocumented Migrants

Nigeria and Turkey are working together to create a voluntary return and reintegration program for undocumented Nigerian migrants residing in Turkey. This initiative is part of efforts to curb deportations and manage irregular migration.

The discussions involved the Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and the Turkish diaspora community during a meeting in Abuja, led by Hunkar Burkan İbin, the head of removal affairs at Turkey's presidency. The program is designed to offer a humane and sustainable approach to managing irregular migration and to assist returnees in successfully reintegrating into Nigeria's socio-economic environment.

Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the chairman and CEO of NIDCOM, welcomed the initiative and encouraged undocumented Nigerians in Turkey to take advantage of the scheme once operational. She reaffirmed Nigeria's opposition to irregular migration and emphasized the importance of legal migration pathways.

NIDCOM plans to collaborate with relevant government agencies and civil society organizations to create awareness about the risks associated with undocumented migration.