Report obtained by 9News Nigeria revealed that about 140 Nigerians who had been stranded in Sudan for months have returned home with the support of the International Organisation for Migration as part of its Voluntary Humanitarian Return.
IOM disclosed this in a statement on Friday, stating that the chartered flight landed at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, where Nigerian Government officials welcomed the returnees.
The statement revealed that among them were 64 women, 36 children, and four infants under 12 months old, as well as migrants with health conditions.
“Following their return, each of the migrants received post-arrival assistance including counselling, medical attention – mental health and psychosocial support where necessary, as well as assistance for onward transportation to their final destinations. IOM and partners will also ensure their reintegration through additional support based on individual needs,” IOM stated.
“After the war, we found ourselves out in the open with no accommodation and no food. Things kept getting tougher, and the problem was that there was no hope because the war kept going on,” said Bashir, one of the returnees. “We are grateful to be back home”, he added.
The international organization noted that since the outbreak of war in Sudan in 2023, more than 12 million people have been forced to flee their homes to resettle in other parts of the country or seek refuge in neighbouring countries.
“A considerable number of them were migrants, including third-country nationals who were circular workers, students and professionals who had made Sudan their home.
“As the war rages, IOM has worked closely with embassies and consular offices from various countries to coordinate protection, assistance and access to services for stranded migrants,” it added.
“Migrants who have transited through or are living in Sudan since the conflict began have found themselves stranded as the humanitarian situation deteriorates in the country. Many have lost everything—documents, homes, and belongings.
For many, Voluntary Humanitarian Return remains the best option for a safe journey home”, said Mohamed Refaat, IOM Sudan Chief of Mission.
