Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Federal Government has expressed condolences to Djibouti following the loss of life of almost 140 migrants, together with 15 youngsters, in a ship catastrophe off the nation’s coast, calling for pressing collective motion to handle the basis causes of irregular migration.
Nigeria, in an announcement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, mentioned the boat capsized between October 8 and 9, 2026, leaving scores of individuals lacking, based on the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
The authorities expressed sympathy to the bereaved households and solidarity with the federal government and folks of Djibouti over the tragedy, describing the incident as a grim reminder of the hazards confronting migrants who undertake perilous journeys in search of financial alternatives.
The assertion, signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, mentioned the catastrophe underscored the pressing must sort out the underlying components driving irregular migration, strengthen the battle towards migrant smuggling and human trafficking, and promote protected, orderly and common migration.
It harassed that efforts to stop such tragedies should align with related African Union frameworks and relevant worldwide devices.
Nigeria additional emphasised that defending migrants, notably youngsters and different weak individuals, was a shared accountability requiring sustained cooperation amongst international locations of origin, transit and vacation spot, in addition to regional and worldwide organisations.
According to the federal government, stronger collaboration is crucial to stop additional lack of life, shield migrants’ basic rights and dignity, and be certain that migration is managed safely and humanely.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its dedication to working with the United Nations, the African Union and different related stakeholders to strengthen migration administration, increase consciousness in regards to the risks of irregular migration and develop sensible measures to handle its root causes.
It additionally known as for renewed worldwide cooperation to safeguard human life alongside migration routes throughout Africa and past.
The tragedy provides to issues over the dangers confronted by migrants travelling alongside harmful routes in pursuit of higher financial prospects, reinforcing calls for stronger motion towards felony networks that facilitate irregular journeys and for extra sustainable options to the components compelling folks to go away their houses.
Nigeria reiterated its deepest sympathies to all these affected by the catastrophe and urged collective efforts to stop comparable tragedies.
