148 Nigerians Repatriated From Chad
The Nigerian Government, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), on Tuesday, received 148 citizens from Chad through the Assisted Voluntary Return initiative.
The returnees, comprising 93 adults, 49 children, and six infants, arrived at the Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, aboard an ASKY Airlines flight with registration number ET-BAT at about 12:25 p.m.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), on Wednesday, disclosed this via its official X page, where it said that they were received by its Lagos Operations Office, working jointly with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI).
Speaking during the reception, NEMA Lagos Territorial Coordinator, Ibrahim Farinloye, said the exercise underscored the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens wherever they may be.
“The Federal Government remains committed to ensuring the safe, dignified, and humane return of Nigerians stranded abroad. Today’s operation is another demonstration of that commitment, as every returnee is being attended to with care and respect,” he said.
The agency said upon arrival, operatives of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) carried out biometric registration and documentation to ensure proper identification and smooth reintegration of the returnees into society.
Also speaking, a representative of the NCFRMI, Mrs. Fatima Dankaka, explained the collaborative approach that guided the exercise.
“This programme is not just about bringing our people back home; it is about giving them a fresh start. With the support of IOM and NEMA, we are making sure they have access to food, medical care, and the first steps towards reintegration,” she stated.
The returnees were provided with immediate humanitarian assistance, including food and potable water, medical care and ambulance services, luggage handling support, and overall coordination to ensure a seamless and orderly process.
An IOM representative at the airport, Mr. Jean-Claude Ndayishimiye, praised the cooperation among stakeholders.
“The successful reception of these 148 returnees shows what can be achieved when national institutions and international partners work hand in hand. Our focus remains on protecting dignity and offering returnees the opportunity to rebuild their lives at home,” he noted.
He said the Assisted Voluntary Return initiative has continued to serve as a support framework for stranded Nigerians abroad, which offers them the chance to come home under safe and humane conditions.
148 Nigerians Repatriated From Chad is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
