A chartered flight carrying 140 Nigerians stranded in Sudan has landed safely at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, marking the first Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) charter flight since the onset of the crisis in Sudan.
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) facilitated the return of these migrants, including 64 women, 36 children, and four infants under 12 months old, as well as migrants with health conditions.
Upon their return, each migrant received post-arrival assistance, including counselling, medical attention, and assistance for onward transportation to help them reach their final destinations. The IOM and its partners will also provide additional support to ensure the migrants’ reintegration into their communities.
Since the outbreak of war in Sudan in 2023, over 12 million people have been forced to flee their homes, with many seeking refuge in neighbouring countries. The IOM has been working closely with embassies and consular offices to coordinate protection, assistance, and access to services for stranded migrants.
The IOM’s VHR programme provides a safe pathway for migrants who wish to return to their countries but lack the means. The programme has been instrumental in helping migrants like Bashir, one of the returnees, who expressed gratitude for being back home.
The VHR charter flight was made possible through the collaboration of authorities in Sudan and Nigeria, including the Nigerian Embassy in Sudan, the Sudanese Ministry of Interior, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria. The European Union also provided support through the Migrant Protection, Return and Reintegration Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa.
The return of these migrants presents both challenges and opportunities. The challenges include ensuring their safe reintegration into their communities, providing them with access to basic services such as healthcare and education, and addressing the trauma and psychological distress they may have experienced during their time in Sudan.
The return of 140 Nigerians stranded in Sudan is a significant milestone in the efforts to provide assistance to migrants affected by the crisis. The IOM’s VHR programme has played a critical role in facilitating their safe return, and the organization will continue to work with partners to ensure their successful reintegration into their communities.