The Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has received 180 Nigerian returnees from Sebha, Libya, under an assisted voluntary return programme coordinated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
NEMA disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday and shared on its X handle on Wednesday, noting that the returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos State, at about 4:20 p.m. on Tuesday.
The returnees arrived aboard an Air Buraq Airlines flight with registration number 5A-BAE. They were received by NEMA’s Lagos Operations Office in collaboration with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons.
According to the agency, the group comprised 143 adults, including 75 males and 68 females; 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, maintain accurate records and facilitate subsequent reintegration processes,” the statement said.
NEMA said the returnees received immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, potable water and medical screening. Ambulance services were also provided for those requiring medical attention.
The agency added that other support services included luggage handling, logistical assistance, reception coordination and counselling to help address the returnees’ immediate needs.
“Reintegration support was also provided to facilitate their return to their respective communities,” the statement added.
NEMA noted that the reception exercise involved relevant government agencies and partner organisations working together to ensure the safe and dignified arrival of the returnees.
The agency said the intervention was designed to provide immediate assistance and support the returnees’ reintegration into their respective communities following their return to Nigeria.
