The Lagos territorial office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the return of 180 Nigerians who were repatriated from Libya.
The returnees, which included 67 adult females, 55 adult males, 42 children, and 16 infants, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.
Their evacuation was facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with NEMA.
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Upon arrival, the returnees underwent biometric profiling by the Nigerian Immigration Service and received immediate humanitarian support to meet their basic needs.
NEMA, in a statement shared via X, noted, “This voluntary evacuation was part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safe return of Nigerians stranded in Libya.”
The agency emphasized that the returnees were provided essential items for their welfare as they reintegrated into society.
However, many are left reflecting on the tough reality of leaving Nigeria unprepared.
Although the country faces economic and governance challenges, it remains a safer option for many to strive locally rather than face the uncertainties of illegal migration.
“This serves as a lesson to those eager to travel without proper planning,” a NEMA official remarked, urging Nigerians to carefully consider their options before venturing abroad.