The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection, welfare and empowerment of refugees, asylum seekers and internally displaced persons (IDPs) across the country as part of its Renewed Hope Agenda.
The renewed commitment comes amid growing humanitarian challenges linked to insecurity, that have continued to increase the number of vulnerable persons across the country.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, stated this on Monday in Abuja during the commemoration of World Refugee Day 2026, themed “Until Everyone is Safe.”
Akume said the Tinubu administration is integrating humanitarian assistance with long-term development strategies aimed at ensuring sustainable solutions for displaced populations.
According to him, government interventions are gradually shifting from short-term relief to empowerment-driven frameworks designed to help displaced persons rebuild their lives and become self-reliant.
“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,” he said.
The SGF disclosed that Nigeria currently hosts over 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers, mostly from countries within the Lake Chad Basin region, while millions of Nigerians remain internally displaced due to insecurity, climate-related challenges and other humanitarian crises.
He explained that government interventions are anchored on three key pillars, protection, livelihoods and durable solutions, implemented through the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).
Akume also stressed the need to expand the National Social Register to include more vulnerable persons, including displaced populations and host communities, to ensure transparent and data-driven humanitarian interventions.
He further noted that climate-induced displacement, insecurity and protracted conflicts continue to highlight the need for stronger international cooperation and sustained humanitarian action.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Bernard Doro, commended the resilience of refugees and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to upholding international humanitarian principles while supporting vulnerable groups in line with global best practices.
In his remarks, the Federal Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of NCFRMI, Aliyu Ahmed, said solidarity must go beyond sympathy to practical actions that protect the dignity and rights of displaced persons.
He noted that protection must include access to education, healthcare, shelter, legal identity, social services and opportunities for meaningful participation in society.
The Federal Government reiterated its resolve to ensure that displaced persons are not only protected but also empowered to contribute meaningfully to national development.