Libya Returns 80 Stranded Nigerians after Months in Harsh Detention Camps

In a coordinated exercise earlier this week, the Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) of Libya, in partnership with the Nigerian Consulate in Tripoli, successfully deported 80 Nigerian nationals who had been held in detention facilities across Libya.

According to migrant-watch group Migrant Rescue Watch, the operation followed judicial orders issued by Libyan authorities. The returnees were escorted to the airport under tight security, processed by the Nigerian mission, and flown home from Tripoli’s Mitiga International Airport. Intelregion

The deportation comes amid intensifying efforts by Libya and other transit countries to address the flow of irregular migration from sub-Saharan Africa to Europe. Many Nigerians and other West Africans use Libya as a transit point en route to the Mediterranean Sea.

A spokesperson for the Libyan authorities said the move forms part of a larger strategy to “reduce undocumented entries, de-congest detention centres, and ensure safe returns” of foreign nationals.

Details of the Operation

The 80 Nigerian migrants had been detained in various holding centres across Libya, awaiting screening or transit. They were presented with travel documents, underwent consular clearance and were repatriated by flight earlier this week.

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Migrant Rescue Watch confirmed that the process was

“conducted humanely and in accordance with international migration-management standards.”

Why This Matters for Nigeria and the Region

• Migration pressure: The repatriation highlights the continuing challenge Nigeria faces as many citizens seek departure via undocumented and dangerous routes.

• Diplomatic cooperation: The exercise demonstrates enhanced collaboration between Nigeria and Libya on migration management  a positive sign for bilateral relations.

• Returnee welfare: Nigeria now has the responsibility to ensure these returnees are reintegrated properly and supported to avoid re-migrating illegally.

• Prevention imperative: Authorities must strengthen awareness campaigns on the risks of irregular migration and build legal pathways for seeking greener pastures.

Libya has long been a major trans-Mediterranean transit hub for migrants from West and Central Africa. Many detainees in Libya face terse conditons in detention camps, such as those around Bani Walid, raising serious human-rights concerns.

In September 2025, for example, Libya transferred 18 undocumented Nigerian migrants from Sirte Immigration Detention Centre in preparation for repatriation.

“Our nationals are being brought back in a safe, documented manner  but the job of reintegration begins at home,” said a Nigerian diplomatic official involved in the operation.

While the return of the 80 Nigerians is a relief and a sign of diplomatic progress, it equally signals urgency for Nigeria to ramp up preventive efforts and ensure that no citizen again embarks on perilous routes out of desperation.