ABUJA, Nigeria — The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, has called for collective support to facilitate the successful reintegration of 258 Nigerian returnees recently repatriated from South Africa.
Speaking in a Democracy Day message, the minister urged government agencies, private organisations, community leaders, and citizens to demonstrate compassion and solidarity toward the returnees as they rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
According to him, the welfare and rehabilitation of returning Nigerians should be viewed as a shared national responsibility, stressing that many of the individuals face significant challenges, including unemployment, housing concerns, and the need for social and economic support.
The minister noted that reintegration efforts go beyond transportation and reception, requiring coordinated interventions that provide access to skills development, livelihood opportunities, healthcare, and social protection programmes. He said such measures are essential to helping returnees become productive members of their communities.
Doro emphasized that the returnees should not be stigmatized or marginalized but rather welcomed and supported through inclusive policies and community-based initiatives. He added that successful reintegration contributes to national development by enabling returnees to apply their experiences and talents toward economic growth.
The minister further stated that Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the values of unity, inclusion, and shared responsibility, noting that these principles should guide efforts to support vulnerable citizens and those facing difficult circumstances.
He called on relevant stakeholders to strengthen partnerships aimed at addressing the needs of returnees and other vulnerable groups, stressing that collaboration between government institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners is critical to achieving sustainable outcomes.
According to officials, the group of 258 returnees arrived in Nigeria through coordinated efforts involving government agencies and international partners working to assist citizens returning from abroad. Authorities said arrangements are being made to ensure that the individuals receive the necessary support services to ease their transition.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerians and promoting programmes that support social inclusion, poverty reduction, and economic empowerment. He expressed optimism that with adequate support, the returnees would successfully reintegrate and contribute positively to their communities and the nation’s development.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to embrace the spirit of compassion and national unity, emphasizing that collective action remains essential to addressing humanitarian challenges and building a more inclusive society.
