109 Stranded Libya Returnees Arrive In Lagos

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed on Tuesday that it had received a group of 109 stranded Nigerians who were repatriated from Libya.

The returnees arrived at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos State, with the assistance of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

According to Ibrahim Farinloye, the Coordinator of NEMA’s Lagos Territorial Office, the Libyan returnees arrived on an Al Buraq Air Boeing 737-800, bearing the registration number 5A-DMG. The aircraft landed at the Cargo Wing of the airport, and upon arrival, the returnees were received and provided with necessary assistance.

Farinloye disclosed that among the returnees, there were 46 adult females, two female children, and one female infant. Additionally, there were 52 adult males, four male children, and four infant males. The flight also transported two individuals with medical cases.

During the reception, Farinloye conveyed a message from the Director-General of NEMA, Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed. He urged the returnees to consider themselves as ambassadors of hope and discouraged other young Nigerians from embarking on perilous journeys outside the country. He emphasized the availability of opportunities within Nigeria and called on the returnees to contribute to the nation’s development.

Farinloye expressed that various agencies collaborated in the reception process, including the National Commission for Refugees, Migration and Internally Displaced Persons, the Federal Ministry of Health, Port Health, the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Police.

Representing the Director-General, Farinloye highlighted the commitment of the new administration to address the challenges facing the nation and revitalize the economy. He assured the returnees that the government would prioritize the involvement of youths and women in policy implementation and decision-making processes. The leadership aims to tap into the potential of these demographic segments, recognizing their energy and technological skills as crucial for the progress of the country.