Nigeria’s refugee landscape underwent a notable transformation during the first quarter of 2026. Official data reveals a 21 percent increase in newly arrived asylum seekers, with 322 individuals seeking protection within the country.

Despite the uptick in new arrivals, the overall population of refugees and asylum seekers in Nigeria recorded a decline. Figures dropped from 142,064 at the end of December 2025 to 138,900 by the end of March 2026.

This reduction of 3,164 people is primarily attributed to the systematic clearing of a significant backlog of individuals who were previously awaiting formal registration. Data shows this backlog fell from 16,672 in December to 13,059 by March.

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon remains the dominant driver of refugee flows into the country. Cameroonian nationals account for 86 percent of the total refugee population, reaching 119,641 by the end of the quarter.

Geographically, the refugee population remains heavily concentrated along the nation’s borders. States such as Cross River, Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, and Akwa Ibom host the majority, with 95 percent of Cameroonian refugees residing in these border regions.

While Cameroonian numbers remained high, other populations experienced shifts. The number of refugees from the Niger Republic fell sharply due to voluntary return movements, while individuals from nations like Syria, Sudan, and the Central African Republic also represent a portion of the total count.

A breakdown of the demographic profile highlights the vulnerability of those involved. Women account for 57 percent of the population, while children under 17 constitute approximately 50 percent of the total number of refugees and asylum seekers.

Regarding the government’s approach, former Nigerian Ambassador to Singapore, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, emphasized the need for a balanced strategy. He noted that while Nigeria must fulfill its international obligations to grant asylum, border agencies must remain vigilant against potential security infiltrations.