Nigeria and Türkiye are working towards the establishment of a voluntary return and reintegration programme for undocumented Nigerian migrants residing in Türkiye as part of efforts to curb deportations.
The initiative emerged from discussions between the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and a delegation from the Turkish Diaspora Community during a meeting in Abuja.
The Head of Removal Affairs at Türkiye’s Presidency of Migration Management, Hunkar Burkan Ibin, said; “the proposed arrangement, which will be formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, will provide counselling, skills assessments and economic support for Nigerians who choose to return home voluntarily.”
Mr Ibin said; “This reflects our commitment to a more humane and sustainable approach to managing irregular migration. Although the number of undocumented Nigerians in Türkiye is relatively small, we want a framework that prioritises voluntary return and long-term reintegration over compulsory removals.”
According to him, the programme is designed to offer a more humane and sustainable approach to managing irregular migration, while helping returnees reintegrate successfully into Nigeria’s socio-economic environment.
The Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa welcomed the initiative and encouraged undocumented Nigerians in Türkiye to take advantage of the scheme when it becomes operational.
Dr Dabiri-Erewa said; “Türkiye is one of Nigeria’s key partners on diaspora matters. NiDCOM will serve as a bridge with Turkish authorities and ensure commitments to returnees are honoured. We will monitor implementation so it remains humane and transparent.”
She reaffirmed Nigeria’s opposition to irregular migration and stressed the importance of legal migration pathways, noting that NiDCOM would work closely with Turkish authorities to ensure the programme is implemented transparently and effectively.
NiDCOM also disclosed plans to collaborate with relevant government agencies and civil society organisations to create awareness about the programme and the risks associated with undocumented migration.
The Turkish delegation said consultations had already been held with key stakeholders in Nigeria, including the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the CLEEN Foundation, as discussions continue ahead of the signing of the agreement.
