Nigeria Mourns Djibouti Boat Tragedy, Calls for Action Against Irregular Migration.

By Owolola Adebola

The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of nearly 140 people in a migrant boat tragedy off the coast of Djibouti, calling for stronger international cooperation to tackle the root causes of irregular migration.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, and dated October 13, 2026, and signed by Oluwafemi Adeniyi, the Ministry’s Spokesman, the government said the boat capsized between October 8 and 9, claiming nearly 140 lives, including 15 children, while scores of others remained missing, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The Spokesperson added that Nigeria extended its condolences to the bereaved families and expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Djibouti, as well as others affected by the disaster.

The government described the tragedy as a grim reminder of the dangers migrants face when embarking on irregular and often perilous journeys in search of economic opportunities.

It stressed the urgent need to address the underlying causes of irregular migration, intensify efforts against migrant smuggling and human trafficking, and promote safe, orderly and regular migration in accordance with African Union frameworks and relevant international agreements.

According to the statement, protecting migrants, particularly children and other vulnerable groups, is a shared responsibility requiring sustained cooperation among countries of origin, transit and destination, as well as regional and international organisations.

Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to working with the United Nations, the African Union and other stakeholders to strengthen migration management, raise public awareness of the risks of irregular migration and develop practical measures to address its root causes.

The government called for renewed collective action to protect human life, uphold migrants’ dignity and improve safety along migration routes across Africa and beyond.