The International Organisation for Migration (IOM), a United Nations agency, welcomed 180 Nigerian migrants, including women and children, back to Nigeria on Tuesday, arriving at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos after being repatriated from Libya. The returnees, who had been in detention camps in Benghazi, arrived via a chartered Buraq Airline flight at approximately 8:15 p.m. through the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal. The IOM, in collaboration with the Nigerian government and supported by the European Union, facilitated this voluntary return as part of ongoing efforts to assist migrants in distress.
The group consisted of 108 adult females and 45 adult males, making a total of 153 adults. It also included 17 children — seven girls and 10 boys — and 12 infants, comprising eight girls and four boys. IOM subhead in Lagos, Ali Ali Ibrahim, confirmed that the total number of returnees on the flight was 182, noting that two of them were unaccompanied minors who returned without their parents or guardians. Mr Ibrahim emphasized that many of these migrants had left Nigeria in search of better opportunities but instead encountered hardship, uncertainty, and in some cases, exploitation during their journey through migration routes.
Upon arrival, the returnees received immediate reception support, including health screening and counselling services. The IOM is also providing reintegration assistance to eligible individuals to help them rebuild their lives. This support includes skills training, small business development, and psychosocial care to address trauma and promote mental well-being. Mr Ibrahim highlighted that over the past decade, more than 65,700 Nigerians have been safely repatriated, with over 52,200 receiving reintegration support to reintegrate into their communities.
He stressed that while return is a significant step, it is only the beginning. “Today, there is relief, but return is only the first step,” Mr Ibrahim said. “Working closely with the government of Nigeria and with the support from the European Union, the IOM is helping them return into a pathway toward recovery.” He added that with the right support and strong partnerships, return can become a meaningful opportunity for recovery, dignity, and a renewed start. The repatriation underscores the importance of coordinated international efforts to protect vulnerable migrants and ensure their safe return and reintegration.
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