Mass Repatriation: NEMA Brings Home 147 Nigerians Stranded in Libya

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has successfully completed a mass repatriation exercise, bringing home 147 stranded Nigerian citizens from Libya.

This crucial humanitarian mission underscores the Nigerian government's commitment to the safety and welfare of its nationals abroad, particularly those who have faced difficult circumstances while attempting to migrate or reside outside the country. The returnees were flown into the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, where they were received by NEMA officials and other government stakeholders.

The operation was executed in collaboration with key international and local partners, most notably the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). The returnees, which included a mix of men, women, and children, had been residing in challenging conditions in various detention centers and locations across Libya.

The flight, chartered specifically for this repatriation process, is part of a broader, ongoing effort by the Nigerian government to address the irregular migration crisis and ensure the safe return of its citizens. Upon arrival, the returnees underwent standard health, security, and profiling checks conducted by relevant agencies.

The support provided by NEMA extends beyond the flight. A critical component of the agency's mandate involves providing initial relief and reintegration assistance.

This latest repatriation of 147 Nigerian citizens from Libya is a testament to the persistent dedication of NEMA and its partners to tackling the complex challenges of irregular migration. The focus now shifts to the successful and sustainable reintegration of these returnees back into Nigerian society, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives.