🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigeria sees rise in asylum-seekers, reduction in refugee registration backlog
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
Nigeria experienced a 21 percent increase in newly arrived asylum-seekers, totaling 322 additional persons, during the first quarter of 2026. Concurrently, the backlog of refugees awaiting formal registration decreased by 3,613 within the same period. Data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees UNHCR and the Federal Government, through the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, indicates that the total refugee and asylum-seeker population in Nigeria slightly reduced from 142,064 in December 2025 to 138,900 by March 2026. The primary driver of refugee flows into Nigeria remains the Anglophone crisis in Cameroon, with Cameroonians accounting for 86 percent of the total refugee population. Most of these refugees are concentrated along the border states, particularly Cross River, Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, and Akwa Ibom. The second-largest group originates from Niger Republic, though their numbers decreased during the quarter due to voluntary return movements. Other source countries include Syria, Sudan, and the Central African Republic. Women constitute 57 percent of the refugee population, children under 17 make up approximately 50 percent, and the elderly account for five percent. The Federal Government has granted Temporary Protection Status to 86,000 Cameroonian refugees through June 2027. A former Nigerian Ambassador to Singapore, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, emphasized Nigeria's international obligations to asylum-seekers while also
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadU.S. President Donald Trump has released CCTV footage and images of the suspect involved in a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C. The footage reportedly shows the suspect running into the Washington Hilton ballroom, bypassing security. Trump also shared images of a shirtless man, believed to be the suspected gunman, restrained in the foyer. Describing the individual as a “would-be assassin,” Trump stated the suspect was heavily armed and breached a security checkpoint before being stopped. According to BBC reports, the president said the suspect “charged past a security checkpoint” with multiple weapons. He added that a law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. The incident occurred on Saturday night, causing panic and the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Authorities have confirmed the suspect is in custody, and investigations are ongoing.
Must ReadThe United States Secret Service has initiated an investigation into a shooting incident that took place in Washington during the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner at the Washington Hilton. The agency is collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Department to ascertain the details of the incident, which occurred near a security screening area and the main magnetometer checkpoint for guest screening. Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service, confirmed on X that all protected individuals, including the president and first lady, were safe. One suspect has been apprehended, and authorities are evaluating the condition of those involved. Guglielmi stated that teams are actively investigating and gathering information, promising updates as more details emerge. The incident has prompted renewed concerns regarding security at significant public events in the US capital, with a review of procedures anticipated as the investigation progresses.
Must ReadUS President Donald Trump described the suspect in a shooting incident at a Washington media gala as a "would-be assassin," stating the individual was heavily armed and breached security before being stopped. The incident occurred on Saturday night during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Gunfire near a security checkpoint caused panic and led to the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Trump said the suspect "charged past a security checkpoint" with multiple weapons, and one law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. Secret Service agents quickly apprehended the suspect, and the president, first lady, and other high-profile attendees were safely escorted from the venue. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes. Trump also expressed concerns about the venue’s security. The event has been canceled and is expected to be rescheduled, with investigations ongoing into the suspect's motive and the security breach. The shooting has intensified scrutiny over security at high-profile public events in the US.
BreakingUS President Donald Trump and the First Lady were unharmed following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night. The United States Secret Service confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, with investigations ongoing in collaboration with local law enforcement. The shooting occurred near the main security screening area at the Washington Hilton, the event venue, where hundreds of journalists, politicians, and guests had gathered. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots shortly after 8:30 p.m., causing panic and leading to the swift evacuation of top officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and cabinet members. President Trump praised security agencies for their quick and brave response, noting that the shooter had been apprehended. Organizers confirmed that the president would address the press and plans to possibly reschedule the event within 30 days. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual gathering celebrating press freedom in the United States. Authorities have not yet released full details about the suspect or possible casualties.