In a concerted effort to address the plight of stranded Nigerians abroad, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) recently partnered with other stakeholders to facilitate the safe return of 147 individuals from Libya. The repatriation initiative, facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) under the European Union’s voluntary repatriation intervention, saw the returnees landing at the Cargo Wing of the Murtala Muhammad International Airport.
Arriving aboard an Al Buraq Air Boeing 737-800 bearing registration number 5A-DMG at approximately 17:54 hours, the returnees comprised 55 female and 78 male adults, accompanied by 12 female and 1 male children, in addition to 1 female infant. Upon arrival, various government agencies, including but not limited to the Refugee Commission, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Police, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and IOM, undertook all requisite procedures.
The collaborative efforts of these agencies underscored a commitment to ensuring the welfare and safe return of Nigerian citizens facing adversities abroad. NEMA’s involvement in this endeavor signifies its ongoing dedication to emergency management and humanitarian assistance, particularly in situations concerning the repatriation and reintegration of stranded nationals.
