Niger Republic Repatriates 1,429 Nigerians Amid Migration Challenges
In May 2026, 1,429 Nigerians were repatriated from Niger Republic, highlighting the country's role as a key transit corridor for migrants aiming to reach North Africa and Europe. The data, from the Quarterly Mixed Migration Update for West Africa, indicates a significant number of Nigerians remain stranded in Niger, often facing prolonged stays in International Organization for Migration centers or urban areas with limited resources. Despite a decrease in the number of arrivals, the report notes that recorded deaths and disappearances on migration routes have only slightly decreased, suggesting continued high-risk attempts. The report also highlights the historical role of Niger as a transit point, which intensified after the fall of the Gaddafi regime in Libya, opening new smuggling routes.