Thousands of Nigerian Refugees Return Home as FG – Cameroon Repatriation Pact Takes Effect

Thousands of Nigerian Refugees Return Home as FG–Cameroon Repatriation Pact Takes Effect

Thousands of Nigerian refugees have started returning home from Cameroon following the activation of a tripartite repatriation agreement between the Federal Government (FG), the Government of Cameroon, Borno State Government, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The programme ensures the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of displaced Nigerians to their communities in Borno State, many of whom fled violence and insurgency over a decade ago.

The repatriation agreement, initially signed in Yaoundé in 2017, provides a framework for the resettlement and reintegration of Nigerians displaced by Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks. Most returnees had been living in Minawao Refugee Camp and other settlements in Cameroon, and the current operation is the first major coordinated return under the pact in several years.

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Former Senate Leader Ali Ndume praised President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babagana Zulum for implementing the repatriation initiative and highlighted the restoration of critical infrastructure in Gwoza and surrounding areas to support returning citizens. He described the programme as a significant humanitarian achievement that enables families to reunite and communities to rebuild.

The repatriation aligns with broader West and Central African regional efforts led by the UNHCR to facilitate voluntary refugee returns while providing reintegration support, including access to housing, health services, and livelihood opportunities. The Federal Government’s revised National Migration Policy further strengthens the framework for safe and organized refugee return and reintegration.

Thousands of Nigerian Refugees Return Home as FG–Cameroon Repatriation Pact Takes Effect