The International Organisation for Migration (IOM), a United Nations agency, on Tuesday in Lagos received 180 Nigerian migrants, including women and children, from Libya.

The returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, through the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal aboard a chartered Buraq Airline flight at about 8:15 p.m.

The migrants, mainly women and children, are voluntary returnees from Libya.

Speaking to journalists at the airport, the IOM subhead in Lagos, Ali Ali Ibrahim, said the majority of the migrants were from detention camps in Benghazi, Libya.

He said, “We are here tonight to welcome home 180 Nigerian migrants from Libya after difficult journeys along migration routes.

“Many left in search of opportunity, but instead faced hardship, uncertainty and for some, exploitation.

” Today, there is relief, but return is only the first step.

“Working closely with the government of Nigeria and with the support from the European Union, the IOM is helping them return into a pathway toward recovery.”

According to Mr Ibrahim, the returnees comprised 108 adult females and 45 adult males, bringing the total number of adults to 153.

He added that the flight also conveyed 17 children, comprising seven females and 10 males, as well as 12 infants, including eight females and four males.

“In total, there were 123 females and 59 males, making a total of 182 returnees on the flight,” Mr Ibrahim said.

He disclosed that two of the returnees were unaccompanied children who returned without their parents or guardians.

“Upon arrival, returnees received reception support, health screening and counselling.

“Those eligible can also access reintegration assistance to help them rebuild their lives.

“That support can include skills training, small business support and psychosocial care.

“For nearly a decade, more than 65,700 Nigerians have returned safely and over 52,200 have received reintegration support.

“What matters most is this: with the right support and strong partnership, return can become a real opportunity to recover, rebuild and move forward with dignity,” Mr Ibrahim said.

(NAN)