140 stranded Nigerians return from Sudan with IOM support

A total of 140 Nigerians stranded in Sudan for months have returned home through the International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) program.

The returnees arrived at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on February 27, where they were received by Nigerian government officials.

Among the returnees were 64 women, 36 children, four infants, and several individuals with health conditions.

Upon arrival, they received medical care, mental health support, and transportation assistance to their final destinations.

One of the returnees, Bashir, recounted the hardships faced during the conflict in Sudan. “We found ourselves with no food, no shelter, and no hope. We are grateful to be back home,” he said.

Since the outbreak of war in Sudan in 2023, over 12 million people have been displaced, including many migrants.

IOM has been coordinating with embassies and consular offices to assist those stranded.

The VHR program, funded by the European Union, provides a safe return for migrants facing dire conditions.

The latest charter flight was facilitated by authorities in Sudan and Nigeria, including the Nigerian Embassy in Sudan, the Sudanese Ministry of Interior, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons.

Paola Pace, IOM Nigeria’s Chief of Mission, praised the collaborative efforts in ensuring migrants’ safe return.

“IOM remains committed to supporting all migrants and ensuring no one is left behind,” she said.