The Federal Government has announced the repatriation of 148 Nigerians from Niger Republic, a group that included men, women, children, and infants. The operation, facilitated by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), underscores Nigeria’s commitment to supporting its citizens stranded abroad.
The repatriated individuals arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Cargo Terminal in Lagos at approximately 2:15 PM on Tuesday aboard a Skymali Airlines flight, ER-CTZ. The group comprised 120 adult males, nine adult females, 10 male children, seven female children, and two infants.
Weather Delays Arrival Procedures
The repatriation process experienced minor delays due to heavy rainfall at the time of the flight’s arrival. Once conditions improved, immigration officials and aircraft handlers facilitated the transfer of the returnees to a biometric registration center for documentation.
“Despite the weather challenge, all necessary protocols were followed to ensure the safety and smooth processing of the returnees,” the Lagos Territorial Office of NEMA confirmed in a statement issued on Thursday.
Collaborative Efforts
NEMA’s Lagos Territorial Coordinator, along with representatives from the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and IOM, oversaw the reception process.
This collaborative effort highlighted the importance of a multi-agency approach in managing migration and reintegration processes.
Commitment to Safe Reintegration
NEMA noted that the repatriation was part of a broader initiative to safely return and reintegrate Nigerians stranded in other countries. The organization expressed gratitude to IOM for its continued support in ensuring the well-being of returnees.
The government reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of Nigerian citizens, regardless of their circumstances abroad. “Repatriation efforts like this are crucial in addressing the challenges faced by Nigerians in distress while fostering their safe return and reintegration into society,” the statement concluded.
Efforts are now underway to ensure that the returnees are reintegrated into their communities, with additional support provided for their immediate needs.
