The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the successful evacuation of 956 Nigerians from Libya within the first quarter of 2025. The repatriation was facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigeria in collaboration with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).
A breakdown of the returnees included 683 females, 132 males, 87 children, and 54 infants. The evacuation took place in six batches between January and March 2025, with arrivals recorded as follows:
January 28 – 152 returnees
February 11 – 145 returnees
February 19 – 180 returnees
February 25 – 159 returnees
March 4 – 144 returnees
March 18 – 176 returnees
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, expressed concern over the continuous use of Libya as a migration route despite repeated warnings about the dangers involved. She emphasized that Libya remains politically unstable and unsafe for migrants.
“Because of the delicate situation in Libya, we have repeatedly advised Nigerians to avoid using it as a transit route to Europe. Unfortunately, some of those who are rescued still attempt to return or take even more dangerous routes,” she stated.
The NiDCOM boss urged Nigerians to explore legal and safe migration pathways while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the dignity and fundamental rights of its citizens at home and abroad.
She also called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, the media, and other stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns against irregular migration.
Over the years, more than 15,000 stranded Nigerians have been repatriated from Libya and other transit countries through efforts by the Federal Government and international organizations.
