Migration Crackdown: Libya sends dozens of Nigerians back home

Nigerians back home after holding them in different detention camps across the country. Officials said the move is part of efforts to reduce illegal migration and ease overcrowding in the camps.

The deportation was organized by Libya’s Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) with help from the Nigerian Consulate in Tripoli. The return flight took off from Mitiga International Airport on Wednesday.

According to Migrant Rescue Watch, an organization that monitors migrant welfare in Libya, the deportation followed court orders from the Libyan Judicial Police.

“The Nigerians were moved from different detention centers and brought to Tripoli under tight security before their flight,” the group said.

Nigerian officials worked with Libyan authorities to ensure that the deportees had proper documents and received consular support before leaving.

The 80 Nigerians are among many African migrants held in Libya for trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea to Europe through unsafe and illegal routes.

Libya remains a major route for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa who are escaping poverty, violence, and political instability in search of better lives in Europe.

Human rights groups have often complained about poor conditions, overcrowding, and mistreatment of migrants in Libya’s detention centers.

They have called on both African and European governments to create safer migration options and address the causes of irregular migration.