From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Deputy Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Mrs. Ogechi Daniels, has commended the Federal Government for its leadership in implementing Operation Safe Corridor, a programme she described as a model for rehabilitation and reintegration in Africa.
Daniels gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, according to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau.
She noted that the programme, initially designed for the North-East, has now expanded to the North-West and North-Central regions.
She also announced IOM’s readiness to deploy experts on Disarmament, Demobilisation, Reintegration, and Reconciliation (DDRR) to new areas such as Zamfara State.
Highlighting IOM’s areas of support, Daniels emphasized strengthening migration management, improving data for disaster risk reduction, and enhancing border security.
She disclosed that IOM has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the UK Development Office to commence Phase 4 of rehabilitation and community-based reintegration initiatives.
While appreciating Nigeria for creating space for IOM’s operations, she reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting safe returns and local integration of internally displaced persons, stressing that joint research would be vital for sustaining peace and reintegration efforts.
In his response, General Musa welcomed Daniels and expressed gratitude for IOM’s long-standing support in the North-East.
He assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would continue to collaborate with IOM and other partners despite financial constraints.
“We support everybody that makes our work easier,” Musa said.
The visit underscored the shared commitment of IOM and the Nigerian Armed Forces to deepen collaboration in addressing insecurity, displacement, and migration challenges while promoting lasting peace and development.