IOM Receives 180 Nigerian Returnees Evacuated from Libya

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has received another batch of 180 Nigerian migrants evacuated from Libya as efforts continue to address irregular migration and support vulnerable citizens stranded abroad.

The returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard a chartered flight from Libya under the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration Programme coordinated by the IOM in partnership with the Federal Government and international partners.

According to the organisation, the group comprised predominantly women and children, many of whom endured difficult living conditions while attempting to migrate through North Africa in search of better opportunities.

The IOM disclosed that several of the returnees reported experiences ranging from detention and exploitation to prolonged uncertainty during their stay in Libya, a major transit route for migrants seeking entry into Europe.

Upon arrival, the migrants underwent health screening and received psychosocial support, counselling and other forms of immediate humanitarian assistance designed to aid their recovery and reintegration into society.

The organisation noted that eligible beneficiaries would also be enrolled in reintegration programmes aimed at helping them rebuild their lives through livelihood support, vocational training and other economic empowerment initiatives.

The latest evacuation forms part of ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities and international agencies to provide safe return options for stranded migrants while discouraging dangerous irregular migration routes that have claimed thousands of lives across the Mediterranean corridor.

The IOM reiterated its commitment to supporting safe, orderly and dignified migration while encouraging prospective migrants to explore legal and safer pathways when seeking opportunities abroad.