The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to providing refuge and protection to persons fleeing conflict and persecution, as Nigeria continues to host over 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers from various countries.
According to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Nigeria currently hosts approximately 130,000 to 140,000 refugees and asylum seekers, predominantly from Cameroon, with significant numbers also from Niger and other nations in the Lake Chad Basin region.
The majority of these individuals reside in host communities across border states including Cross River, Taraba, Akwa Ibom, Benue, and Adamawa, rather than in formal camps. This integration approach allows refugees access to basic services, education, and livelihood opportunities alongside Nigerian host communities.
“Nigeria remains a beacon of hope and hospitality in the West African sub-region. Despite our own domestic challenges, including the presence of millions of internally displaced persons, we continue to uphold our international obligations under the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 1969 OAU Convention,” said a Federal Government spokesperson.
The government highlighted ongoing collaboration with UNHCR, state governments, and international partners to provide humanitarian assistance, protection, and durable solutions such as voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement where feasible.
This commitment comes as the world marks growing concerns over global forced displacement, with Nigeria playing a vital role in regional stability and humanitarian response.
The Federal Government called on the international community to increase support for host countries like Nigeria through funding, technical assistance, and shared responsibility in addressing the root causes of displacement, including conflict and insecurity in the Lake Chad Basin.