Our Reporter
Libyan authorities have deported 80 Nigerian migrants held in detention centres across the country, as part of an intensified effort to curb irregular migration and reduce overcrowding in holding facilities.
The repatriation exercise, coordinated by the Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) in collaboration with the Nigerian Consulate in Tripoli, was conducted on Wednesday via Mitiga International Airport.
According to Migrant Rescue Watch, an organisation monitoring migrant welfare and human rights in Libya, the deportations followed judicial directives issued by the Libyan Judicial Police.
“Judicial Police Dept., on orders of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, transferred a group of undocumented migrant females of Nigerian nationality to DCIM custody in Tripoli. All females were served with judicial deportation orders and are awaiting deportation,” the organisation stated on its X handle.
The latest batch of returnees reportedly included migrants previously transferred under similar judicial orders, signalling a sustained effort by Libyan authorities to enforce immigration laws.
“#Libya 11.11.25 – DCIM with Nigerian consular support repatriated 80 migrants of Nigerian nationality via Mitiga Int. Airport in Tripoli. The group includes migrants transferred by the Judicial Police who were served with judicial deportation orders,” Migrant Rescue Watch added.
The development highlights ongoing cooperation between Libya and diplomatic missions, including Nigeria, to regulate the presence of undocumented migrants and improve conditions in detention centres, which have long been criticised for overcrowding and poor human rights standards.
Libya has been a major transit country for African migrants seeking passage to Europe, often via dangerous Mediterranean routes. Over the years, undocumented migrants have faced harsh conditions in detention centres, including limited access to food, medical care, and legal support. In response, Libyan authorities, in partnership with consulates and international agencies, have periodically conducted deportation and repatriation exercises to manage migration flows and address humanitarian concerns.
The Nigerian government has frequently coordinated with Libyan authorities to facilitate the safe return of its citizens, emphasising protection and reintegration programmes upon arrival.