More than 4,000 Nigerians have reportedly returned home from India under an amnesty programme introduced by the Indian government to help undocumented foreigners regularise their immigration status or leave the country voluntarily without penalties.
Nigeria’s High Commissioner to India, Ambassador Saidu Dahiru Muhammad, disclosed the figure during an interaction with diplomatic correspondents covering the 2026 BRICS Summit in New Delhi.
Muhammad explained that the initial six-month period granted under the programme was extended by another three months after he assumed office, giving more Nigerians living in India without regular immigration status an opportunity to benefit.
He added that Nigeria has requested a further extension of between three and six months to allow additional citizens to take advantage of the initiative.
According to the envoy, one of his first major engagements after arriving in India on July 23 was a virtual meeting with Nigerians living across different parts of the country. During the meeting, he urged them to comply with Indian laws, avoid activities capable of damaging Nigeria’s reputation and engage only in legitimate businesses and activities.
The Nigerians reportedly raised several concerns, including visa overstays, difficulties with visa renewals and extensions, students’ welfare and access to medical care.
Muhammad subsequently met officials of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, including those responsible for Central and West Africa, to discuss immigration matters and other challenges affecting Nigerian citizens in the country.
The High Commissioner commended the Indian government for introducing the amnesty programme, saying it provides undocumented Nigerians with an opportunity to either regularise their status or return to Nigeria voluntarily without facing penalties.
He said discussions with Indian authorities also covered the welfare of Nigerians in the country, as part of efforts to improve consular cooperation and address issues affecting the Nigerian community.
On Nigeria-India relations, Muhammad described his August 24 meeting with Indian President Droupadi Murmu as cordial and productive. He said both sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The High Commissioner identified pharmaceuticals and healthcare, energy and renewable energy, mining and solid minerals, manufacturing, trade and investment as key sectors where Nigeria and India could deepen cooperation.
He said strengthening partnerships in these areas would contribute to broader economic and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
