Vice President Kashim Shettima, has assured that President Bola Tinubu is committed to tackling the challenges of migration.

Shettima spoke at the 10th Annual National Migration Dialogue themed, “Beyond Borders: Celebrating Migrants’ Legacy, Protecting Their Rights,” at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He also stressed that the Federal Government remained resolute in addressing migration challenges.

Shettima applauded the invaluable contributions of Nigerian immigrants to the global economy, saying Nigeria accounts for the highest of all diaspora remittances in West Africa.

He said Nigerian migrants have become global ambassadors who excel in technology, medicine, sports, creative arts, and other human endeavours.

Shettima said that the Annual National Migration Dialogue coincides with the commemoration of International Migrants Day.

He noted that the theme of the dialogue sparks solemn “reflection on the dual essence of migration—its remarkable contributions to society and the enduring need to safeguard the rights of those who undertake these journeys.”

He said that Nigeria was both a country of origin and a destination for migrants, with over 1.3 million international migrants living within.

Shettima, however, cautioned against the constant challenges of irregular migration.

The Vice-President regretted that the nation returned about 10,000 of its citizens detained for sundry migration offences in 2024 alone.

” However, we must acknowledge that irregular migration remains a persistent challenge.

” In 2024, we have already returned and reintegrated no fewer than 10,000 Nigerians who had been detained for immigration offenses in African and European countries.

” These figures highlight the vulnerabilities that come with migration and emphasize the need for coordinated efforts to address these challenges while harnessing migration’s potential for economic growth and resilience.”

He listed innovations aimed at addressing migration challenges to include introduction of electronic gates at major airports to revolutionise the traveller experience.

” And ensure faster, more secure clearance,” as well as “the rollout of e-passports, designed with advanced security features, facilitates seamless international travel while enhancing the integrity of Nigeria’s travel documents.

“The NIS has also expanded access to Nigerian visas through online platforms, making it easier for travellers to apply and obtain visas.

” This includes the Visa-on-Arrival policy, which has enhanced Nigeria’s attractiveness as a destination for business and tourism,” he added.

Shettima cited partnerships with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), among such other agencies.

The Vice-President pointed out that they have been invaluable in advancing migration governance.

He implored participants at the dialogue to come up with practical solutions that, instead, celebrate and advance the legacies as well as the rights of Nigerian migrants.