IOM hails Nigeria’s migration reforms as Shettima seeks stronger partnerships

By Kunle Sanni –

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has praised Nigeria for its notable progress in migration governance and disaster preparedness, describing the country’s efforts as a model for addressing the complex challenges of displacement and climate-related crises.

This commendation came during a visit by the IOM’s Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, to Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa on Friday.

Speaking during the meeting, Vice President Shettima stressed the need for deeper collaboration with international partners to tackle the root causes of migration and ecological disruptions that continue to threaten livelihoods and security in many parts of the country.

He warned that poverty, illiteracy, and environmental degradation are fueling displacement and conflict, particularly in the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions.

“There is an incestuous relationship between ecology and economy in sub-Saharan Africa. You cannot divorce the challenges of migration from climate-induced effects,” Shettima said, calling for “pragmatic and inclusive solutions” to break the cycle of poverty and violence.

Citing Martin Luther King Jr., the Vice President urged Nigerians to work together to confront common challenges rather than fight among themselves. “We must either learn to live together as brothers, or we are going to die together as fools,” he said.

Shettima also called on the IOM to expand its support for gender empowerment and land restoration efforts to help communities recover from deforestation and displacement.

In her remarks, Dimanche applauded Nigeria’s proactive measures, including the launch of the State Action Plan on Floods and the Framework for Anticipatory Action, describing them as significant steps toward building resilience.