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.