Over 20,000 Stranded Nigerians Repatriated from Libya and Other Countries – Report

A new report by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has revealed that 20,197 Nigerians stranded in various countries have voluntarily returned home under the IOM’s Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration programme.

This initiative, supported by the Federal Government and Nigerian missions abroad, aims to help migrants facing hardship abroad.

According to the data, women and girls make up nearly 88% of returnees, while men account for 13%.

Many of these individuals were victims of human trafficking, with most falling between the ages of 18 to 39, making them highly vulnerable to exploitation.

The report indicates that:

• Libya remains the top country of exploitation, with 53% of returnees suffering abuses there.
• Mali ranks second (29%), primarily involving forced prostitution.
• Italy, Germany, Spain, UAE, and France were among the intended destinations before migrants were stranded.

Economic Hardship Drives Migration

The findings show that 94% of migrants left Nigeria in search of better economic opportunities, while others fled domestic violence, sought education, or pursued family reunification.

Many migrants suffered forced labor, sexual exploitation, and psychological abuse.

The IOM, in collaboration with the Nigerian government, has successfully reintegrated over 3,122 victims, providing medical care, vocational training, and psychological support.

Experts Call for Increased Awareness

While some returnees have been rehabilitated, authorities warn that many still plan to embark on another journey due to economic difficulties.

Experts emphasize the need for better sensitization to prevent desperate migration attempts.

“Many young people believe the grass is greener abroad, but the reality is often harsh,” said Zakaria Dauda, a former spokesperson for NAPTIP (National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons).

The Executive Director of Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF), Imaobong Ladipo-Sanusi, added that while migration cannot be stopped, providing Nigerians with adequate information on the risks and realities can help them make informed choices.

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