IOM Deputy Director Pushes Solutions in Nigeria Visit
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Deputy Director General for Operations, Ugochi Daniels, has concluded a four-day visit to Nigeria, reaffirming IOM’s commitment to supporting government-led efforts to address displacement and strengthen migration governance.
During her visit, the Deputy Director General launched IOM Nigeria’s 2025-2027 Country Strategy in Abuja together with senior government officials and development partners. The strategy, developed through an inclusive review process with federal and state stakeholders, sets out a comprehensive roadmap to improve migration governance, strengthen protection systems, and promote durable solutions for internally displaced persons and affected communities.
“Every displaced family has the right to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity,” said Deputy Director General Daniels. “This strategy is not just IOM’s; it reflects Nigeria’s vision co-created with government and communities to move from crisis to opportunity. Durable solutions are not achieved overnight. They require long-term commitment, coordinated action, and the active participation of those most affected. Together, we can help ensure that displacement does not define people’s futures but becomes a stepping stone towards resilience and recovery.”
In Benue, where over 500,000 persons remain displaced due to inter-communal conflicts and climatic shocks, the Deputy Director General met with families in Ortese and Mega camps, where IOM supports shelter and water services for more than 25,000 people. She also held discussions with state authorities on the State Action Plan on Durable Solutions, which was developed with IOM’s technical support. This plan provides a nationally led framework to put millions of Nigerians on sustainable pathways out of displacement, backed by both national resources and international partners.
Following her visit to Benue State, the government announced a contribution of USD 50,000 to IOM’s Resilience Campaign. This global initiative aims to strengthen migration governance and advance durable solutions for displaced populations, including in West Africa.
In Adamawa State, Deputy Director General Daniels met with people who benefitted from durable solutions programmes implemented by IOM in collaboration with partners. These initiatives provide integrated support across housing, livelihoods, education, and access to essential services. She spoke with families among the more than 4,300 individuals who have taken part in voluntary relocation and resettlement initiatives facilitated by IOM and state authorities. Through these efforts, many households have established new sources of income and improved access to services, moving closer to lasting stability and self-reliance.
Nigeria continues to grapple with one of the world’s most complex displacement crises, with over 3.5 million people internally displaced across the country. As the lead UN agency for the Secretary-General’s Action Agenda on Internal Displacement in Nigeria, IOM works closely with government institutions, civil society, the private sector, and affected communities to advance durable solutions that are locally owned and development-focused.
IOM remains committed to supporting Nigeria in building systems that address urgent humanitarian needs today while laying the foundation for peace, stability, and sustainable development in the years ahead.
https://www.iom.int/news/iom-deputy-director-general-advances-durable-solutions-visit-nigeria