As part of a voluntary repatriation program, Libya has deported 177 Nigerian migrants, which are mostly women and children. The deportation was carried out by the country’s Illegal Migration Control Department, which confirmed that the group included nine children and eight infants. After the migrants were flown out of Tripoli Mitiga International Airport, the authorities indicated that further repatriation flights were planned for the week. The Libyan government has described the deportations as humanitarian and voluntary as a strategy to address illegal migration.
However, the move comes amid growing concerns about the treatment of migrants in Libya, particularly those held in detention centres. The country has long been a central transit point for migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe. Furthermore, Libyan Interior Minister Emad al-Tarabelsi has urged the European Union (EU) and other affected nations to provide more support in curbing illegal migration. He emphasised that securing Libya’s southern borders is crucial to addressing the issue rather than focusing solely on coastal monitoring.
International support was urged to address the migration crisis.
The minister warned that if the international community fails to support voluntary return programs, they may resort to forced deportations. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 700,000 migrants are currently in the country, though the authorities believe the figure is much higher. So far this year, 3,855 migrants have been intercepted at sea and returned to the nation, while 75 of them have died attempting the perilous Central Mediterranean route.
While the repatriation program aims to provide safe returns, concerns remain about the fate of deported individuals. Many of these migrants fled economic hardship and instability in their home countries, risking their lives in search of a better future. The increasing deportations have raised fears that crackdowns may exacerbate Human Rights violations against vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. The situation also draws attention to the plight of thousands of African migrants stranded in the country’s detention centres, where conditions are often terrible.
Nigeria’s role in supporting deported citizens and tackling root causes.
Meanwhile, the challenges faced by deported migrants do not end upon their return. Many arrive in their home countries with little to no resources, having lost everything in pursuing a better life. For Nigeria, which is already grappling with economic hardship, the return of its citizens presents additional challenges. The government must now find ways to support these individuals and help them reintegrate into society while addressing the root causes of irregular migration. The federal government has a critical role in supporting the newly deported individuals.
Immediate assistance, such as food, shelter, and medical care, is essential, particularly for vulnerable groups like women and children. Many of these individuals may have experienced trauma during their journey and detention, necessitating access to counselling and Mental Health services. Beyond immediate support, long-term solutions are needed to help deportees rebuild their lives. Vocational Training and skills development programs can equip them with the tools to secure employment or start small businesses. Financial assistance, if available, and job placement support can ease their transition into society.
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Collaboration with international organisations like the IOM is also vital. These organisations bring expertise and resources that can enhance repatriation and reintegration efforts. To effectively curb irregular migration, it is essential to address the root causes that push people to leave their country. Poverty, unemployment, and Insecurity are among the primary drivers of migration. Tackling these issues requires sustained Investment in economic development, job creation, and improved security. By creating opportunities at home, the government can reduce the desperation that leads many to embark on dangerous journeys.