The returnees, including 26 children and 11 infants, arrived in Lagos under the Assisted Voluntary Return Programme coordinated by the International Organization for Migration.

The Federal Government has received 180 Nigerians returning from Libya, including 26 children and 11 infants, under a programme designed to support migrants’ safe return and reintegration.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said the returnees arrived at about 4:20 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.

According to the agency, the group returned from Sebha, Libya, aboard an Air Buraq Airlines flight with registration number 5A-BAE.

The return was facilitated under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) Programme, coordinated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the Federal Government.

NEMA’s Lagos Operations Office received the returnees alongside the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons.

The group comprised 143 adults, including 75 men and 68 women; 26 children, made up of 12 boys and 14 girls; and 11 infants, comprising three boys and eight girls.

Upon arrival, officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service conducted biometric registration and documentation to establish the returnees’ identities, maintain records and support the reintegration process.

NEMA said the returnees received immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, drinking water and medical screening. Ambulance services were also available for those requiring further medical attention.

Other assistance included luggage handling, logistical support, reception coordination and counselling.

The agency said reintegration support was provided to help the returnees return to their respective communities.

The reception exercise involved relevant government agencies and partner organisations working to ensure the safe and dignified arrival of the Nigerians and address their immediate needs.

The Assisted Voluntary Return Programme supports migrants who choose to return to their countries of origin, with assistance that may include travel arrangements, reception services and reintegration support.