NCFRMI Decentralizes Nigeria's Migration Policy in 2026

Aliyu Tijani-Ahmed, the Director-General of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), announced that the Commission is decentralizing Nigeria's national migration policy rather than fragmenting it. This statement was made during his keynote address at the South East Migration Dialogue 2026 held in Umuahia, Abia State.

Tijani-Ahmed emphasized the importance of the dialogue as a platform for stakeholders from the five South East states to discuss migration challenges and develop solutions. He noted the region's unique migration experiences, including irregular migration and human trafficking.

Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, stressed the need for collaboration among governments and stakeholders to ensure orderly migration. Otti called for practical outcomes from the dialogue, including a regional framework and the promotion of safe migration.

Other speakers included representatives from the International Organization for Migration and the Civil Society Network on Migration and Development, who highlighted the need for partnerships to support migrants and returnees.