Overview

The document is the National Commission for Refugees, Etc. Act, a Nigerian law enacted on 29th December 1989 (1989 No. 52). It establishes the National Commission for Refugees to safeguard the interests and treatment of persons seeking refugee status or political asylum in Nigeria. The Act is divided into eight parts. Part I prohibits the expulsion or return of refugees to territories where their life or freedom would be threatened on account of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular group, or political opinion, or due to external aggression or events disrupting public order. Exceptions apply to refugees who are a danger to Nigeria's security or convicted of serious crimes. Persons claiming refugee status who have illegally entered Nigeria cannot be expelled merely due to illegal entry while their application is pending. Part II establishes the National Commission for Refugees, detailing its composition and functions. Part III provides for the appointment of a Federal Commissioner for Refugees and an Eligibility Committee. Part IV establishes a Refugees Appeal Board. Part V outlines procedures for seeking refugee status, including application, residence pending recognition, cessation of proceedings for illegal entry, withdrawal of status, and right of appeal to the Secretary to the Federal Government. Part VI addresses treatment of family members of refugees. Part VII enumerates rights and duties of refugees, including provisions on detention, expulsion, and naturalisation. Part VIII contains miscellaneous provisions, such as special assistance by the Commission, regulations, and definitions. The Act incorporates three schedules: the First Schedule (Articles of conventions applicable to recognised refugees and protected persons), the Second Schedule (Protocol relating to the status of refugees of 31 January 1967), and the Third Schedule (Organisation of African Unity Convention governing specific aspects of refugee problems in Africa). Key definitions include 'refugee' as per the conventions, and the Act applies to persons who have been granted refugee status or are seeking it.

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