By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard M. Doro, has called on Nigerians, corporate organisations, state governments, faith-based institutions, community leaders and development partners to support the reintegration of 258 Nigerians recently repatriated from South Africa.
In a Democracy Day message, the minister said the occasion provides an opportunity not only to celebrate democratic governance and constitutional freedoms but also to reflect on the values of compassion, unity, inclusion and collective responsibility toward vulnerable citizens.
According to him, one of the strongest expressions of democracy is the willingness of citizens to care for one another, stressing that societies are judged not only by the strength of their institutions but also by how they treat their most vulnerable members.
The appeal follows the successful return of 258 Nigerians from South Africa. The returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, aboard a chartered flight operated by Air Peace and facilitated by the Federal Government.
Dr. Doro, who led government officials in receiving the returnees, noted that while the Federal Government has taken significant steps to facilitate their return and reintegration, rebuilding lives requires the support of the wider society.
He urged the private sector, development organisations, philanthropic institutions, state governments and well-meaning Nigerians to partner with the government in restoring dignity, rebuilding lives and creating opportunities for the returnees.
The minister also commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the welfare, dignity and protection of Nigerians both at home and abroad, describing the successful repatriation as evidence of the administration’s determination to ensure that no Nigerian is abandoned regardless of location.
According to him, the return of the citizens marks the beginning of a new journey focused on reintegration, recovery and renewed opportunity. He called on families, communities, employers, faith-based organisations and civil society groups to play active roles in helping the returnees regain stability and confidence.
Dr. Doro noted that many of the returnees experienced significant disruptions to their livelihoods, relationships and future plans, making community support critical to their recovery and successful reintegration.
He disclosed that beyond reception arrangements, health screening, profiling and documentation, efforts are already underway to provide humanitarian assistance and strengthen partnerships aimed at supporting the returnees’ economic and social recovery.
The minister further praised the collaborative efforts of government ministries, agencies and private-sector stakeholders whose contributions ensured a safe and dignified return process.
Reaffirming his commitment to strengthening reintegration systems and expanding partnerships, Dr. Doro said the ministry would continue to pursue sustainable pathways from vulnerability to resilience and prosperity in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.
He added that democracy remains strongest when citizens care for one another, stressing that nation-building is a shared responsibility that extends beyond government to every Nigerian.
