In a collaborative effort between the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and relevant Nigerian authorities, a total of 137 distressed Nigerians has been successfully repatriated from Mali.
The returnees, comprising 28 female and 78 male adults, along with 12 female and 18 male children, and one female infant, arrived at the Cargo Wing of the Murtala Muhammad International Airport. The repatriation was conducted under the IOM Voluntary Repatriation programme aimed at assisting stranded Nigerians.
The returnees were transported by Sky Mali Air, with flight number UR-CQX, and touched down at approximately 1400 hours. Upon arrival, the group was warmly received by officials from various Nigerian agencies, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, Police, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
The IOM’s voluntary repatriation initiative serves as a crucial lifeline for distressed nationals stranded in foreign countries, providing them with the necessary support to return to their home country. The successful return of these 137 Nigerians underscores the commitment of the IOM and Nigerian authorities to ensuring the welfare and safety of citizens abroad. The collaborative efforts of the aforementioned agencies in facilitating the smooth reception of the returnees further highlight the coordinated approach taken to address the needs of those in distress.
