..Centre for Counselling of Deportees & Refugees (Ccdr Nigeria)

Our country, day by day, produces an increasing population of deportees and refugees in frightening numbers. This is as a result of the poor economic development and social infrastructures prevailing for many years now. It becomes necessary for a serious reflection on the plight of these fellow Nigerians brothers.

Poor economic development and frequent civil wars in the less developed countries account mainly for the high rate of immigrants, which have led to the emergence of refugee situation around the world. Africa, South America and some few Asian countries form the bulk of the majority, with countries from the sub-Sahara Africa especially Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal toping the list.

Hunger and poor basic amenities which are prevalent in most of these countries, have led to the great number of people leaving their various country of origin to the highly industrialized countries Europe and America.

Most of these immigrants often narrate their state of hopelessness, inhuman treatment and consequently death while on transit and at their country of destination. Some actually prefer to serve jail terms for travel related offences in their country of origin rather than to be deported back home.

Unfortunately in-spite of their sound educational background they often take up menial job to enable them secure the necessary document to avoid deportation.

Some are actually victims of extreme cases such as genocide and inter tribal/ethnic conflict as found in the case of Rwanda, Daffur and some other African countries. Most of these displaced persons often find it very reluctant returning to their countries after peace had been restored for fear of subsequent attack. In many instances victims of such ugly and tragic situations tend not to forget in a hurry.

The United Nations in attempt to assist the victims provides accommodation for refugees in most countries all over the world through the setting up of refugee camps, provision of food and free medical care.