…call for stronger action against irregular migration, human trafficking
By Gloria Ikibah 
The Federal Government has expressed condolences to Djibouti following the death of nearly 140 migrants, including 15 children, in a boat capsizing off the country’s coast.
The incident, which occurred between 8 and 9 October, 2026, also left scores of people missing, according to the International
Organisation for Migration (IOM).
In a statement issued on by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, in Abuja, the government said it was deeply saddened by the tragedy and extended its sympathy to the bereaved families, the Government of Djibouti and its people.
Nigeria said the disaster highlighted the dangers migrants face when travelling through irregular routes in search of economic opportunities.
The government called for urgent action to address the factors driving irregular migration, strengthen the fight against migrant smuggling and human trafficking, and promote safe, orderly and regular migration.
It said these efforts should align with relevant African Union frameworks and applicable international instruments.
The statement stressed that protecting migrants, particularly children and other vulnerable people, was a shared responsibility requiring sustained cooperation among countries of origin, transit and destination, as well as regional and international organisations.
“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 also reaffirmed its commitment to working with the United Nations, the African Union and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen migration management, raise awareness of the dangers of irregular migration and develop practical measures to tackle its root causes.
The government reiterated its sympathy to all those affected by the disaster and called for renewed collective action to protect human life along migration routes across Africa and beyond.
