On 27 October 2025, a total of 153 Nigerian nationals were successfully repatriated from Chad through a coordinated effort led by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the Federal Government of Nigeria. The returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard an ASKY Airlines flight, landing at approximately 12:15 p.m. The operation was conducted under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) programme, which aims to support stranded migrants in returning home safely and with dignity.
The group included 105 adults, 63 men and 42 women, alongside 45 children, comprising 25 boys and 20 girls, and three female infants. Upon arrival, officials from the Nigeria Immigration Service carried out biometric registration and documentation to ensure proper profiling and facilitate reintegration. This process is essential for tracking the returnees’ status and connecting them with support services tailored to their needs.
NEMA provided immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, medical care, and temporary shelter. The agency emphasized its commitment to ensuring that returnees are not only welcomed back but also supported in rebuilding their lives. Plans for psychosocial support and livelihood opportunities are part of the broader reintegration strategy, reflecting a holistic approach to migration management.
This repatriation underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to address migration challenges and protect its citizens abroad. It also highlights the importance of international cooperation in humanitarian operations, especially in regions affected by displacement and instability. The successful return of these individuals marks a significant step toward restoring hope and stability for families who had endured difficult circumstances in Chad.