The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has facilitated the repatriation of 960 Nigerian migrants from Libya during the first three months of 2025. This operation was conducted in collaboration with IOM Nigeria and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons.
According to North Africa Post, the returnees were transported on six separate flights between January and March. Among them were 683 women, 132 men, 87 children, and 54 infants.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, warned of the dangers of irregular migration routes, particularly through Libya, which remains a major transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe via the Mediterranean.
She urged Nigerian citizens to avoid these high-risk routes and emphasised the importance of legal and regulated migration pathways. Dabiri-Erewa also reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of its citizens both at home and abroad.
Additionally, she called for stronger cooperation between government agencies, civil society organisations, and the media to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal migration and to promote safer, legal alternatives.
Over the past few years, more than 15,000 stranded Nigerians have been repatriated from Libya and neighbouring countries through IOM’s voluntary return programmes.
