Evaluating the Psychosocial Needs and Reintegration of Returnee Migrants in Nigeria
Abstract:
Returnee migrants in Nigeria face complex
psychosocial challenges that hinder their reintegration into society. This
study evaluated the psychosocial needs and reintegration experiences of
returnee migrants across Nigeria. A mixed-method design was used to
assess returnees’ psychosocial needs. Quantitative data were collected from
1,316 returnee migrants using a structured, pretested questionnaire with a
5-point Likert scale, selected through multistage sampling across Nigeria’s six
geopolitical zones. Qualitative data were obtained through 8 focus group discussions
(FGD) with 12 participants each. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS
version 28.0, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using QDA
Miner. The mean age of respondent was 29.11 ± 6.21. Psychosocial needs
assessments revealed limited access to mental health services (36.6%). Most respondents
reported weak community belonging (75.7%) and high levels of social isolation
(84.7%), while stigma related to returnee status was widely prevalent (85.1%). Psychosocial
factors such as Sex, and religion shows a strong independent association
with psychosocial needs among returnees. Male respondents have significantly
higher odds (AOR= 5.533: p<0.001) of reporting psychosocial needs compared
to females. Muslim participants reported lower odds of psychosocial needs
(AOR=0.559: p=0.026) compared to Christian respondents. Qualitative findings
revealed widespread stigma, broken relationships, and systemic exclusion,
particularly affecting women. Returnees emphasized the need for trauma-informed
mental health care, sustainable livelihoods, and structural support such as transitional
housing. Returnee migrants in Nigeria experience profound psychosocial
distress characterized by stigma, economic hardship, and weak community
integration. Interventions should focus on reducing stigma, strengthening
community acceptance, and integrating psychosocial support.
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