The Federal Government has revealed that Nigeria is currently home to more than 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers, most of whom come from countries within the Lake Chad Basin region. The country is also managing the challenges posed by millions of internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by insecurity and other humanitarian emergencies.
The disclosure was made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during the commemoration of World Refugee Day 2026 in Abuja. The event, themed “Until Everyone is Safe,” highlighted the struggles of displaced populations and renewed commitments to their protection and inclusion.
Speaking at the event, Akume reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting refugees and asylum seekers as well as internally displaced persons under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He explained that current efforts focus on linking humanitarian assistance with long-term development programmes that promote self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
“The Federal Government is deliberately shifting from palliatives to pathways by linking humanitarian response to development opportunities. We are committed to ensuring that displaced persons not only survive but thrive through access to livelihoods, agribusiness opportunities, education and social protection programmes,” Akume stated.
According to the SGF, the government’s response is built around three key areas: protection, livelihoods and durable solutions. These initiatives are being implemented through the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).
Akume noted that insecurity, climate change and prolonged conflicts continue to fuel displacement globally, making stronger international cooperation increasingly important. He stressed that refugees and asylum seekers should not be viewed solely as victims but as individuals capable of contributing positively to society when given the necessary support and opportunities.
The government is also working to expand the National Social Register to include more vulnerable citizens, displaced persons and host communities, ensuring that humanitarian support remains targeted and transparent.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Bernard Doro, called for stronger collaboration among governments, development partners and humanitarian organisations to provide lasting solutions. The NCFRMI chief executive, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, also urged stakeholders to move beyond sympathy by ensuring displaced persons have access to education, healthcare, shelter, legal identity and social services.
