ABUJA/Nigeria: Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has once again sprung into action as it received a group of 102 distressed Nigerians who were evacuated from Tripoli, Libya. The majority of the returnees were young women in need of assistance. Their journey back to their home country was made possible by a chartered flight provided by Al Buraq Air, a Boeing 737-800 with registration number 5A-DMG.
The Director General of NEMA, along with representatives from various government agencies, eagerly awaited the returnees’ arrival at the Cargo Wing of Murtala Muhammad International Airport in Ikeja. The clock struck 1745 hours when the chartered flight touched down, and the weary travelers disembarked, hoping to find solace and safety on their native soil.
According to the profiles of the returnees, a total of 93 adult females, 3 female children, and 3 female infants were among those brought back to Nigeria. The group also included 1 adult male, 1 male child, and 1 male infant, completing the number of individuals seeking repatriation and support.
NEMA’s efforts were not undertaken alone, as they were joined by several other key organizations and agencies. The Nigeria Immigration Service, Refugee Commission, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Police, and the Department of State Services (DS) all came together to ensure the safe return and well-being of the distressed Nigerians.
Upon their arrival, the returnees were greeted with open arms and compassion. NEMA and its collaborating agencies swiftly moved into action, providing immediate medical attention, food, and temporary shelter. Counseling and psychosocial support were also made available to help the returnees cope with their traumatic experiences and plan for their future.
Nigeria, like many other countries, has been grappling with the challenges posed by irregular migration and the dangerous journeys individuals undertake in search of better opportunities abroad. NEMA’s tireless efforts in coordinating the repatriation and rehabilitation of distressed Nigerians stand as a testament to the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
As the distressed Nigerians took their first steps on Nigerian soil, they were embraced by a sense of hope and relief. Although they had endured unimaginable hardships in their quest for a better life, they were now back in the care of their homeland, where efforts would be made to restore their dignity, empower them, and reintegrate them into society.
The arrival of this latest batch of returnees from Tripoli serves as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead and the importance of concerted efforts to address the root causes of irregular migration. It is a call to action for governments, international organizations, and individuals alike to work together to create opportunities and support systems that can discourage dangerous journeys and provide viable alternatives for those seeking a brighter future.
NEMA and its partners will continue to lend their hands and expertise to ensure the safe return and rehabilitation of distressed Nigerians, with the hope that one day, stories of perilous journeys and exploitation will become tales of resilience and triumph over adversity.
