NEMA Welcomes 144 Nigerians Home From Libya In Heartwarming Repatriation.
Tears of joy and sighs of relief filled the air at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos yesterday as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) received 144 Nigerians repatriated from Libya. The group, which included women, children, and young men, had endured months of hardship in the North African nation, but their safe return has been hailed as a shining example of Nigeria’s dedication to its citizens abroad.
The repatriation, completed on Wednesday evening, was the result of tireless collaboration between NEMA, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and international partners, including the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Many of the returnees had been caught in Libya’s unstable conditions, some facing detention or exploitation after attempting to seek better opportunities in Europe. Their arrival back on Nigerian soil marked the end of a harrowing chapter and the beginning of a hopeful new one.
NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar was on hand to greet the group, her warm words resonating with the weary travellers. “You are home now, and we will help you start anew,” she assured them, outlining plans for immediate support, including medical check-ups, counselling, and assistance with reintegration. “This is not just a rescue—it’s a promise to stand by our people,” she added, earning applause from officials and onlookers alike.
Among the returnees was Chinedu Okoye, a 28-year-old from Anambra State, whose voice trembled with emotion as he spoke. “I never thought I’d see Nigeria again,” he said, clutching a small bag of belongings. “The conditions there were unbearable, but now I feel alive again.” Others shared similar sentiments, with mothers hugging their children tightly and young men shaking hands with NEMA staff in gratitude.
The operation underscores Nigeria’s growing efforts to protect its diaspora, particularly those caught in perilous situations abroad. In recent years, thousands of Nigerians have been brought back from countries like Libya, often fleeing conflict or trafficking networks. This latest group brings the total repatriated in 2025 alone to over 500, according to NEMA records, a testament to the agency’s proactive stance.
As the sun set over Lagos, the 144 stood as a symbol of resilience—and a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, Nigeria remains committed to bringing its people home.