Democracy Day: Minister Urges Citizens, Organisations to Support Returning Nigerians from South Africa
As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, has issued a heartfelt appeal for collective support for the 258 Nigerians recently repatriated from South Africa. Describing their reintegration as a shared national endeavour, he urged citizens, corporate organisations, state governments, faith-based institutions, community leaders, and development partners to extend compassion and assistance.
In his address, the Minister highlighted that Democracy Day is not merely a celebration of democratic governance and constitutional freedoms but also a moment to reflect on the values that unite Nigerians—particularly compassion, solidarity, inclusion, and a collective responsibility to support each other during challenging times.
“One of the greatest expressions of democracy is our ability to care for one another. A society is ultimately judged not only by the strength of its institutions, but by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens and those facing difficult circumstances.
As we celebrate our democratic journey, we must also recommit ourselves to the values of empathy, unity, and shared responsibility that make national progress possible,” he stated.
The Minister’s appeal follows the successful arrival of the 258 Nigerian returnees at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The return was facilitated by a chartered Air Peace flight, part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to support Nigerians abroad and ensure their dignified and safe return home.
Dr. Doro, who led government officials in welcoming the returnees, emphasised that while the government has taken significant steps to facilitate their return and reintegration, rebuilding lives requires broader societal participation.
“The government cannot do it alone. We welcome the support of the private sector, development organisations, philanthropic institutions, state governments, and all citizens willing to partner in restoring dignity, rebuilding lives, and creating opportunities for our people.
Many of these Nigerians have endured difficult experiences and sudden disruptions to their lives and livelihoods. As they return home, our collective responsibility is to help them recover, reintegrate, and rediscover hope,” he said.
Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to the welfare and dignity of Nigerians both at home and abroad, Dr. Doro noted that the successful repatriation exemplifies the compassionate leadership of the administration.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated a strong commitment to the welfare of Nigerians wherever they may be. The successful return of these citizens reflects that commitment and reinforces the principle that every Nigerian matters,” he affirmed.
He added that this repatriation marks not just the conclusion of a difficult chapter but the start of a new journey characterised by reintegration, recovery, and opportunity. The Minister called on families, communities, employers, faith-based organisations, and civil society groups to actively support the returnees in settling back into society.
“It is difficult for anyone to suddenly leave behind a place where they have built a livelihood, established relationships, and planned a future. The emotional impact extends beyond adults to children whose education, friendships, and daily lives have also been disrupted.
This is why families and communities have an important role in creating a supportive environment that encourages healing, stability, and hope,” he explained.
While acknowledging the importance of safe arrival and initial support, Dr. Doro emphasised that the real work begins after their arrival. He revealed that efforts are underway to support their social and economic recovery through humanitarian assistance and strategic partnerships.
Profiling of the returnees indicated that many migrated primarily for socioeconomic reasons, underscoring the need for continued investment in job creation, skills development, social protection, and economic empowerment.
“The experiences of these returnees remind us of the importance of creating opportunities at home while strengthening systems that support vulnerable populations and promote sustainable livelihoods.
As a nation, we must address the root causes of vulnerability and work towards pathways of opportunity, resilience, and prosperity. Their stories offer valuable lessons for shaping future policies and interventions,” he added.
The Minister also lauded organisations, institutions, and individuals who have already contributed to the reintegration efforts through livelihood support, financial aid, and other programmes designed to aid the returnees’ transition back into society.
He further commended the leadership of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), NEMA, FAAN, NIS, Port Health Services, Air Peace, and other stakeholders.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening reintegration systems, expanding partnerships, and promoting sustainable pathways from vulnerability to resilience in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“As we welcome our brothers and sisters home, we must remain focused on what truly matters: restoring dignity, rebuilding lives, and ensuring every Nigerian has access to opportunities to thrive.
Democracy is strongest when citizens care for one another. Let this Democracy Day serve as a reminder that nation-building is a collective endeavour. It is the responsibility of us all,” he concluded.