Nigeria has recorded an increase of 322 new asylum-seekers in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 21% rise, while also successfully reducing its backlog of unregistered refugees by 3,613.
According to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the number of asylum-seekers grew from 1,528 in December 2025 to 1,850 by March 2026. Despite this rise, the overall population of refugees and asylum-seekers in Nigeria dropped from 142,064 to 138,900 within the same period, largely due to improved registration processes.
The backlog of individuals awaiting registration significantly declined from 16,672 in December to 13,059 in March, reflecting ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and its partners to streamline documentation.
Most refugees in Nigeria are from Cameroon, driven mainly by the prolonged Anglophone crisis. Cameroonians make up about 86% of the refugee population, with their numbers rising slightly to over 119,000 by March 2026.
These refugees are largely concentrated in border states, with Cross River hosting the highest number, followed by Adamawa, Taraba, Benue, and Akwa Ibom. A large portion of them live outside formal camps, though over 20,000 are in designated settlements.
Refugees from Niger form the second-largest group, although their numbers dropped significantly due to voluntary repatriation efforts. Other refugees come from countries like Syria, Sudan, and the Central African Republic.
Demographically, women account for 57% of the refugee population, while children under 17 make up about half. Elderly individuals represent a smaller percentage.
Nigeria continues to manage its refugee situation through collaboration between government agencies, including the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, and international partners. The government has also granted temporary protection to about 86,000 Cameroonian refugees until June 2027.
However, concerns have been raised about security, with experts urging authorities to remain vigilant against potential threats while fulfilling humanitarian obligations.