Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Federal Government has expressed condolences to Djibouti following the dying of almost 140 migrants, together with 15 kids, in a ship catastrophe off the nation’s coast, calling for pressing collective motion to handle the foundation causes of irregular migration.
Nigeria, in an announcement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, stated 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, stated the catastrophe underscored the pressing must deal with the underlying components driving irregular migration, strengthen the struggle towards migrant smuggling and human trafficking, and promote secure, orderly and common migration.
It careworn that efforts to forestall such tragedies should align with related African Union frameworks and relevant worldwide devices.
Nigeria additional emphasised that defending migrants, notably kids and different weak individuals, was a shared accountability requiring sustained cooperation amongst nations of origin, transit and vacation spot, in addition to regional and worldwide organisations.
According to the federal government, stronger collaboration is important to forestall additional lack of life, shield migrants’ elementary rights and dignity, and be sure 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 considerations over the dangers confronted by migrants travelling alongside harmful routes in pursuit of higher financial prospects, reinforcing calls for stronger motion towards legal networks that facilitate irregular journeys and for extra sustainable options to the components compelling individuals to depart their properties.
Nigeria reiterated its deepest sympathies to all these affected by the catastrophe and urged collective efforts to forestall related tragedies.
