IOM, FG Repatriate 182 Nigerian Migrants From Libya

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Federal Government have facilitated the return of 182 Nigerian migrants from Libya under a voluntary return programme.

No fewer than 182 Nigerian migrants, including two unaccompanied children, have been returned to the country through a joint effort between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Tuesday at about 8:24 p.m. aboard a chartered aircraft marked Buraq, as part of the IOM Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme, which is supported by the European Union in partnership with Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders.

Among those repatriated were 153 adults, made up of 108 females and 45 males, along with two unaccompanied children. The group was evacuated from Benghazi, Libya, with about 50 of them coming directly from detention centres, while others were gathered from surrounding cities.

Speaking on the development, Head of IOM’s Lagos Sub-Office, Ali Ibrahim, said the migrants endured difficult journeys along migration routes in search of better opportunities abroad.

“182 Nigerians arrived home today after difficult journeys along migration routes. Many left in search of opportunities, but instead faced hardship, uncertainty, and for some, exploitation,” he said.

He added that while the return marks relief for many, it is only the beginning of a longer recovery process. According to him, the IOM, in collaboration with the Nigerian government and European Union partners, is focused on helping returnees rebuild their lives through reintegration support.

Upon arrival, the migrants received reception assistance, health checks and counselling. Those who qualify will also benefit from reintegration programmes, including skills training, small business support and psychosocial care aimed at helping them restart their lives.

Ibrahim noted that nearly a decade of the programme has seen more than 65,700 Nigerians safely returned, with over 52,200 already receiving reintegration assistance.

He emphasised that with proper support and sustained partnerships, return migration can become an opportunity for recovery, dignity and renewed livelihoods.

What more do you think should be done to reduce risky migration journeys among young Nigerians?