170 Nigerian Migrants, Including Women and Children, Repatriated from Libya by IOM
By Okafor Joseph Afam, December 4, 2024
A total of 170 Nigerian migrants, including women and children, have been repatriated from Libya with the support of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM). The repatriation process took place at the Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli.
The Migrant Rescue Watch, a humanitarian monitoring group, confirmed the development in a statement issued late Tuesday. According to the group, an additional 11 undocumented Nigerians were transferred from the East Tripoli Immigration Detention Center to the Deportation Office in Tripoli, where they are set to board a Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) flight arranged by the IOM.
The statement read:
“DCIM repatriated with IOM support carrying 170 migrants including women & children of Nigerian nationality via Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli. DCIM transferred from East Tripoli Immigration Detention Center to Deportation Office in Tripoli 11 undocumented migrants of Nigerian nationality who are scheduled for repatriation on VHR flight.”
Libya has long been a major transit point for African migrants seeking to reach Europe, with many enduring dangerous sea voyages. However, the journey often exposes them to severe risks, including exploitation, detention, and abuse. The IOM continues to assist in repatriating these vulnerable individuals, providing them with an opportunity to return home safely.
