Abuja – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding aimed at addressing unemployment and enhancing migration management initiatives in Nigeria. This agreement marks a significant step towards providing sustainable employment opportunities for youth and supporting the socio-economic reintegration of returned migrants.

“This cooperation agreement with NDE is a testament to our shared commitment to harnessing the benefits and opportunities of migration for Nigeria’s sustainable development. By working together, we can not only offer sustainable assistance to returned migrants, but also foster socioeconomic independence for communities”, said Paola Pace, IOM Nigeria’s Chief of Mission ad interim during the signing ceremony on 11 March 2025.

As part of the MoU, IOM and NDE have agreed to strengthen their collaboration to build the skills of, and empower returned migrants, internally displaced persons and vulnerable youths. A technical advisory body will be set-up bringing together experts from the two Agencies to ensure timely exchange of information, the development of joint proposals, and the targeting of assistance in line with Nigeria’s development priorities and IOM’s Strategic Vision.

Youth unemployment and underemployment in Nigeria are among the key drivers of migration, as many young Nigerians seek better opportunities abroad. For many of them, desperation leads them to often risking their lives along dangerous migration routes.

IOM works closely with Ministries, Departments and Agencies at both Federal and State levels to provide dignified and sustainable return and reintegration to Nigerian migrants stranded abroad. In 2024, IOM facilitated the voluntary return of 8,612 Nigerians from various countries. IOM’s reintegration support includes job creation initiatives, vocational training, and small business development programs, which empower returnees to become self-reliant and contribute positively to their communities.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is part of the United Nations system and is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration. In Nigeria, IOM supports the Federal Government as well as States in harnessing the promise of migration by strengthening migration governance; by fostering innovative partnerships to advance humane and orderly migration benefitting migrants and society; by encouraging social and economic development through migration, and by working with all actors to uphold the human rights and well-being of migrants.

For more information, please contact Francois-Xavier Ada, Public Information Officer. Email: fadaaffana@iom.int.