The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has revealed that more than 3.7 million people are currently living in displacement across Nigeria due to conflict, violence, and climate-related disasters such as flooding and environmental degradation.
This was disclosed by Sharon Dimanche, Chief of Mission for IOM in Nigeria, while delivering a goodwill message at the inaugural Edo State Humanitarian Summit held in Benin City.
Dimanche noted that behind the rising displacement figures are millions of families striving to rebuild their lives after losing homes, livelihoods, and a sense of stability. She emphasized that humanitarian interventions must go beyond emergency assistance to restoring hope, dignity, and opportunities for affected communities.
According to her, IOM’s humanitarian work in Nigeria is anchored on three key priorities: saving lives and protecting people on the move, advancing durable solutions to displacement, and promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration.
She explained that the organisation continues to deliver life-saving assistance and protection to vulnerable populations affected by conflict and climate shocks, while also supporting pathways to long-term recovery and resilience.
Dimanche stressed that Nigeria must move beyond merely managing displacement to implementing sustainable solutions, including safe voluntary returns, local integration, and the creation of resilient communities where displaced persons can rebuild their futures.
Highlighting the role of Edo State in Nigeria’s migration landscape, she noted that IOM has maintained a strong partnership with the state government since establishing its presence in Benin City in 2017.
Through this collaboration, the organisation has facilitated the safe return of over 9,000 migrants from Edo State, while more than 8,000 individuals have received reintegration support to rebuild their livelihoods.
She also revealed that IOM has provided protection, counselling, and recovery assistance to over 1,100 victims of human trafficking.
Dimanche further explained that Migration Information and Job Centres supported by IOM are helping young people across the state access guidance on safe migration practices, skills development, and employment opportunities.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns on safe migration have reached more than three million people across Edo State, helping communities better understand migration risks and opportunities.
She stressed that tackling displacement and vulnerability requires sustained collaboration between governments, the United Nations system, development partners, civil society organisations, and the private sector.
Dimanche reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the Edo State Government to strengthen humanitarian response systems, build resilient communities, and ensure that migration becomes a pathway to development and opportunity rather than a journey defined by risk.
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