The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has received 180 Nigerian returnees from Sebha, Libya, under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) Programme coordinated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the Federal Government.
The returnees arrived at about 4:20 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, aboard an Air Buraq Airlines flight with registration number 5A-BAE at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos State.
NEMA’s Lagos Operations Office received the returnees in collaboration with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).
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 males and eight females.
Upon arrival, officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) conducted biometric registration and documentation to verify the returnees’ identities, maintain accurate records and support subsequent reintegration efforts.
The returnees were provided with immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, potable water, medical screening, ambulance services for those requiring medical attention, luggage handling and logistical support.
Other services included reception coordination, counselling and reintegration assistance to facilitate their return to their respective communities.
NEMA said the reception exercise involved relevant government agencies and partner organisations working together to ensure the safe and dignified arrival of the returnees and provide essential support following their return to Nigeria.
