The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the arrival of 153 Nigerians repatriated from Chad under the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) Programme facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Federal Government.

The returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Sunday, October 27, 2025, around 12:15 p.m. aboard an AS-SKY Airlines flight with registration number CAS-AC.

According to NEMA, the group included 105 adults — 63 males and 42 females — along with 45 children and three infants, all females. Upon arrival, officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) conducted biometric registration and documentation to ensure proper profiling and facilitate their reintegration into society.

The agency said the returnees were provided with food, potable water, medical care, counselling, and logistical support as part of the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and dignified return for citizens stranded abroad.

“The exercise was seamless and well-coordinated, reflecting government’s continued efforts to prioritize the welfare and dignity of Nigerians returning from abroad,” NEMA stated.

The repatriation exercise was carried out in collaboration with the IOM, the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and other relevant partners.

NEMA reaffirmed that such efforts align with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to support citizens seeking voluntary return, reintegration, and rehabilitation after migration-related challenges.