The Federal Government has pledged to expand economic and social support for refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons (IDPs), shifting from short-term humanitarian aid to sustainable strategies aimed at fostering long-term self-reliance.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, made the announcement on Monday in Abuja during the 2026 World Refugee Day commemoration, restating the administration’s commitment to protecting and empowering displaced populations.
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government is linking emergency response with opportunities in agribusiness, education, skills development, and social protection. “We are moving from temporary relief to sustainable pathways that allow displaced persons not just to survive, but to thrive,” Akume stated.
Nigeria currently hosts over 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers, predominantly from neighbouring Lake Chad Basin countries, while millions of citizens remain displaced by conflict and insecurity. The government’s response framework, implemented through the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and IDPs, rests on three pillars: protection, livelihoods, and durable solutions.
Akume noted that climate-induced displacement, insecurity, and prolonged conflicts demand stronger international cooperation. He urged stakeholders to view displaced individuals as persons of potential deserving dignity and inclusion.
The Federal Government is also expanding the National Social Register to incorporate more vulnerable groups, including displaced persons and host communities, to enhance data-driven and transparent support delivery.
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, praised refugees’ resilience and reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to global humanitarian standards, calling for closer collaboration among governments, development partners, and host communities.
Echoing this, the Director-General of the National Commission, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, stressed that support must extend beyond sympathy to practical measures safeguarding rights and dignity—including access to education, healthcare, housing, legal identity, and meaningful societal participation.