The National Emergency Management Agency (c), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), on Monday received 170 stranded Nigerians repatriated from Tripoli, Libya, under the Assisted Voluntary Return programme.
The returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport at about 3:36 p.m. aboard Air Buraq Airlines flight 5A-BAG.
Confirming the development, Head of NEMA Lagos Operations Office, Mr. Mohammed Olatunde, said the exercise was conducted in partnership with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safe and dignified return of Nigerians stranded abroad. “The programme is supported by the IOM and the Federal Government to guarantee a humane return process for affected citizens” he stated.
Olatunde disclosed that the returnees comprised 163 adults, including 129 males and 34 females, alongside seven children and two infants. He added that one male returnee with a medical condition received immediate attention upon arrival.
He further explained that officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service carried out biometric registration and proper documentation of the returnees to facilitate their reintegration process.
According to him necessary procedures were followed to ensure accurate records and coordination among relevant agencies.
The returnees were also provided with food, potable water, medical care, and psychosocial counselling. Olatunde noted that additional support services, including ambulance care, luggage handling, and logistics assistance, were deployed to ensure a smooth reception and reintegration into society.
