NIGERIA EXTENDS CONDOLENCES OVER LOSS OF LIVES OFF THE COAST OF DJIBOUTI, CALLS FOR MORE ACTION AGAINST CAUSES OF IRREGULAR MIGRATION

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, ABUJA

PRESS STATEMENT

NO: MFA/PR/2026/270

NIGERIA EXTENDS CONDOLENCES OVER LOSS OF LIVES OFF THE COAST
OF DJIBOUTI, CALLS FOR MORE ACTION AGAINST CAUSES OF
IRREGULAR MIGRATION

The Federal Government of Nigeria is profoundly saddened by the tragic capsizing
of a migrant boat off the coast of Djibouti between 8 and 9 October, 2026, resulting
in the loss of nearly 140 lives, including 15 children, while scores of others remain
missing, as reported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Nigeria extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and expresses
solidarity with the Government and people of Djibouti as well as those affected by
the unfortunate incident.

Nigeria notes that the tragedy underscores the grave dangers associated with
irregular migration routes where migrants risk their lives in pursuit of economic
opportunities. It highlights the urgent need to address the underlying causes of
irregular migration, intensify efforts to combat migrant smuggling and trafficking in
persons, as well as promote safe, orderly and regular migration in line with relevant
African Union (AU) frameworks and applicable international instruments.

The Federal Government of Nigeria emphasizes that protecting migrants,
particularly children and other vulnerable persons, is a shared responsibility that
requires sustained cooperation among countries of origin, transit and destination,
as well as relevant 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.

Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to working with the United Nations (UN), the AU
and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen cooperation on migration
management, raise awareness on the dangers of irregular migration and advance
practical measures to address its root causes.

The Federal Government of Nigeria reiterates its deepest sympathies to all those
affected by the disaster and calls for renewed collective action to safeguard the
dignity and safety of human life along migration corridors across Africa and beyond.

Signed:
Oluwafemi Adeniyi
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja

Tuesday, 13 October 2026