The UN International Organisation for Migration has reassured of its commitment to deepen cooperation with Nigeria towards tackling irregular migration.

The IOM chief of mission, Laurent De Boeck, said this in Abuja while briefing journalists on IOM Nigeria’s humanitarian impact in 2023.

Mr Boeck said, “We are reinforcing our cooperation with the federal and state levels for answering the characteristics of migration level and for achieving good reception in the country.

“Thanks to the fact that the country ‘Nigeria’ is in the global compact on migration. There is a network on migration among various ministries, which will help us to comprehensively promote the involvement of different MDAS on the migration team.”

He added, “This is key for us to ensure that the federal level and state level have a response aligned to the national policies and frameworks.”

Acxording to Mr Boeck, although IOM currently operates in 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory, it plans to expand its frontiers to tackle issues about the displaced population.

“IOM identified and supported 682 victims of trafficking with a focus on vulnerable groups, such as survivors of gender-based violence, persons with disabilities, and unaccompanied and separated children.

“IOM facilitated the return of 4,431 Nigerians and supported their reintegration through assisted voluntary return, reintegration, and collaboration with the federal government.

“A total of 2,853 individuals received reintegration assistance, engaging in socio-economic opportunities of their choice,” Mr Boeck explained.

Mr Boeck identified the success recorded by IOM in 2023 as including intervention across various sectors to tackle humanitarian needs resulting from conflicts, environmental and climate hazards, and displacement in some states.

“In 2023, IOM’s WASH Programme reached a remarkable 127, 075 individuals across 37 camp locations in Adamawa and Borno.

“Completion of six solar boreholes, construction of 402 showers and later one stance, a successful hygiene promotion campaign breaching 37, 266 individuals.

“Collaborative efforts with partner organisations to ensure the distribution of cholera and hygiene kits to flood-affected areas, contributing to a safer and healthier environment,” he said.

(NAN)