Lagos, Nigeria –On March 4, 2025, Libyan authorities repatriated 144 vulnerable Nigerians, prioritizing their safe return.
Shortly afterward, Nigerian officials greeted the returnees warmly at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Following their arrival, the government swiftly provided essential support, ensuring a smooth reintegration process.
This coordinated effort underscored both nations’ commitment to protecting displaced citizens.
By ensuring their safe return home, authorities demonstrated effective cross-border coordination and compassionate support for citizens in need.
It collaborated closely with key stakeholders like the International Organization for Migration, the National Emergency Management Agency, and other essential government partners to ensure seamless integration.
The returnees arrived aboard a chartered Boeing aircraft with registration number 5A-BAB, which landed at 4:45 PM local time.
The group comprised 100 females, 8 males, 26 children, and 10 infants.
Upon arrival, the returnees underwent mandatory profiling and biometric registration conducted by relevant agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Medical screenings and counseling sessions were also provided to ensure their immediate well-being.
The collaborative effort involved contributions from Port Health Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI). These agencies worked together to provide humanitarian assistance to the returnees.
Following the initial reception process, the returnees were transported to the Igando IDPs Resettlement Center. There, they will participate in reintegration programs organized by the IOM. These programs are designed to support their smooth transition back into society and help them rebuild their lives.
This operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to addressing migration challenges and providing support to its citizens in vulnerable situations abroad.