The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, has received 179 Nigerian returnees from Libya under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) programme facilitated by the International Organization for Migration.
The returnees arrived on April 7, 2026, at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard an Al Buraq Airlines flight at about 4:15 p.m.
According to official figures, 162 of the returnees were adults, comprising 95 males and 67 females, while 9 were children and 8 were infants.
Upon arrival, officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service carried out biometric registration and documentation to ensure proper identification and support their reintegration process.
In line with the Federal Government’s commitment to a safe, dignified, and humane return process, the returnees received immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, potable water, medical care, and ambulance services, as well as logistical support for their personal belongings.
Counselling and coordination services were also provided to ensure an orderly reception and to assist the returnees as they begin reintegration into society.
The exercise highlights ongoing collaboration between government agencies and international partners in addressing migration challenges and facilitating the safe return of Nigerians stranded abroad.
