The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has facilitated the return of another batch of Nigerian migrants evacuated from Libya, as part of ongoing efforts to address irregular migration and support vulnerable returnees.
The latest evacuation involved 180 Nigerians, mainly women and children, who arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard a chartered flight from Libya.
According to the IOM, many of the returnees endured harsh conditions during their migration attempts, including detention, exploitation and prolonged uncertainty while stranded abroad.
The agency stated that upon arrival, the returnees were provided with immediate assistance, including health screening, psychosocial counselling and other essential support services.
Eligible individuals will also receive reintegration assistance aimed at helping them rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.
The IOM described the evacuation as part of a broader collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria and international partners to facilitate voluntary return programmes and promote safer migration pathways.
“The latest operation is part of ongoing collaboration between the IOM, the Federal Government and international partners to facilitate voluntary returns and promote safer migration pathways,” the agency said.
The organisation noted that it has assisted more than 65,500 stranded Nigerian migrants over the past nine years through similar evacuation and support programmes.
It also disclosed that over 30,000 returnees have received psychological, social and economic reintegration support to help them restart their lives after returning to Nigeria.
The IOM further urged greater public awareness on the risks of irregular migration and called for more responsible media reporting on migration-related issues.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has continued to warn Nigerians against irregular migration and the use of unsafe travel routes.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) recently reiterated that travelling without valid documentation is illegal and exposes individuals to significant risks.
In a public advisory, the NIS stressed that all international travel must be conducted with valid passports, visas (where required) and other approved immigration documents.
It warned that attempts to bypass official immigration procedures or use unauthorised border routes constitute violations of Nigerian law.
Authorities have intensified public sensitisation campaigns aimed at discouraging irregular migration, particularly among young Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
The renewed evacuation effort underscores ongoing challenges linked to migration pressures across West Africa and the continued collaboration between Nigerian authorities and international agencies to address the issue.
