The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has received 145 Nigerian returnees from Benghazi, Libya, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos.
According to a statement issued by the Head of NEMA’s Lagos Operations Office, Mr. Mohammed Olatunde, the returnees arrived at approximately 8:27 p.m. aboard an Al Buraq Airlines flight under the Assisted Voluntary Return programme.
He explained that the initiative is coordinated by the IOM in collaboration with the Federal Government to support the safe return of stranded Nigerians.
Providing a breakdown of the returnees, Olatunde said the group included 122 adults—46 males and 76 females—alongside 29 children, made up of 13 boys and 16 girls. In addition, 27 infants were received, comprising 17 males and 10 females.
Upon arrival, officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service carried out biometric registration and documentation to ensure proper identification and support reintegration efforts.
Olatunde added that the returnees were given immediate assistance, including food, clean drinking water, and medical care. Ambulance services were also made available for those in need of urgent attention.
Other support services provided included help with luggage, logistical arrangements, and counselling.
He noted that these measures were put in place to guarantee a safe, organised, and dignified reception process for the returnees.