Harsh Reality of Illegal Migration: Repatriated Nigerians Recount Desert Ordeal

Nearly 500 Nigerians flown back from Niger Republic have shared the dangers they faced while attempting illegal passage to Libya. The group included 174 men, 97 women, 137 boys and 89 girls. One returnee from Kano said he endured six years of menial labour in Libya and witnessed many deaths from thirst and starvation in the desert. A mother of two from Borno described losing her savings to bandits and fleeing after eight months. Officials say the repatriation was voluntary and coordinated with the International Organization for Migration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They advised Nigerians to avoid risky migration routes and promised support services and medical care for the returnees. Government agencies have appealed for empowerment programmes to help returnees rebuild their lives at home.

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