NEMA, NCFRMI RECEIVE 180 RETURNEES FROM LIBYA

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), has received 180 Nigerians returning from Sebha, Libya, under the Assisted Voluntary Return Programme coordinated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, at about 4:20 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27, aboard an Air Buraq Airlines flight.

The group comprised 143 adults, including 75 men and 68 women; 26 children, made up of 12 boys and 14 girls; and 11 infants, comprising three boys and eight girls.

Upon arrival, officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service conducted biometric registration and documentation to establish the identities of the returnees and support the reintegration process.

NEMA said the returnees received immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, drinking water and medical screening. Ambulance services were also made available for those requiring medical attention, while officials provided luggage handling, logistical support, reception coordination and counselling.

The agency explained that reintegration assistance was provided to help the returnees settle back into their respective communities.

The exercise was conducted in collaboration with relevant government agencies and partner organisations to ensure the safe and dignified reception of the returning Nigerians.

The Assisted Voluntary Return Programme supports migrants who wish to return to their home countries and helps facilitate their reintegration. The latest exercise forms part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and its international partners to provide humanitarian assistance to Nigerians returning from Libya.