Nigeria has called for stronger international action against the causes of irregular migration following a boat disaster off the coast of Djibouti that reportedly killed nearly 140 people, including 15 children, with scores of others still missing.
The Federal Government also expressed condolences to the victims’ families and solidarity with the Government and people of Djibouti over the tragedy, which occurred between October 8 and 9, 2026.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, October 13, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, Nigeria said the disaster, as reported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), underscored the deadly risks migrants face while pursuing economic opportunities through irregular routes.
Nigeria Calls for Coordinated Action
The Federal Government said protecting migrants, particularly children and other vulnerable people, required sustained cooperation among countries of origin, transit and destination.
It also stressed the importance of collaboration between governments, regional bodies and international organisations to prevent further loss of life and uphold migrants’ rights and dignity.
“Such collaboration is imperative to prevent the loss of life, uphold the rights and dignity of migrants, and ensure that migration is managed in a safe, humane and orderly manner,” the statement said.
Nigeria called for migration policies and interventions to align with relevant African Union frameworks and applicable international instruments.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Migration Safety
The government reaffirmed its commitment to working with the United Nations, the African Union and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen migration management and raise public awareness about the dangers of irregular migration.
It also called for practical measures to address the root causes that push people to undertake dangerous journeys.
The ministry said renewed collective action was necessary to safeguard lives along migration corridors across Africa and beyond.
