7,000 Nigerians Stranded in Libya – Diaspora Commission Raises Alarm
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7,000 Nigerians Stranded in Libya – Diaspora Commission Raises Alarm |
NiDCOM reveals that over 7,000 Nigerians are stranded in Libya in 2025. Calls for urgent action to address irregular migration and support returnees.
Thousands of Nigerians Trapped in Libya
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has revealed that at least 7,000 Nigerians are currently stranded in Libya, highlighting the ongoing dangers of irregular migration.
Speaking at the launch of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Strategic Plan for Nigeria (2025–2027) in Abuja, NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the situation as “deeply troubling”.
“As we speak, 7,000 Nigerians are stranded in Libya. In 2025, people still travel through the desert to die,” Dabiri-Erewa lamented, stressing the urgent need for safer migration pathways.
Why Nigerians Risk Dangerous Migration Routes
Despite years of awareness campaigns and rescue operations, many young Nigerians continue to risk their lives on perilous desert and sea journeys in search of greener pastures.
Key drivers of irregular migration include:
- High unemployment rates
- Lack of access to economic opportunities
- Insecurity in some regions of Nigeria
- Limited awareness about legal migration options
According to Dabiri-Erewa, addressing these root causes requires joint collaboration between government, international partners, and local communities.
IOM’s Strategic Plan for Nigeria (2025–2027)
The new IOM Strategic Plan for Nigeria (2025–2027) was unveiled to strengthen migration management and provide safer alternatives for Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
The IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, emphasized that the plan was designed with national priorities in mind:
- Developed through inclusive consultations
- Supported by both government institutions and civil society
- Focused on providing sustainable migration solutions
Dimanche stressed that all stakeholders must take ownership of the plan to ensure full implementation.
“We want to see that difference. And I’m counting on you for your support to make that difference,” she said.
Implications for Nigeria’s Migration Challenges
The revelation that thousands of Nigerians are stranded in Libya once again underscores the urgent need for structured migration policies. Beyond repatriation efforts, there is a demand for long-term solutions such as:
- Empowerment programs for Nigerian youth
- Skills development and vocational training
- Partnerships with international migration agencies
- Stronger border monitoring and advocacy campaigns
For context on government interventions in related areas, you can read about social support programs in Nigeria on androidpols.com.ng.
Global Context on Migration
Nigeria is one of Africa’s leading countries of origin for irregular migration. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), thousands of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa face exploitation, abuse, and detention in transit countries such as Libya.
This makes coordinated efforts between Nigeria, international partners, and humanitarian agencies essential to reduce migration-related deaths and protect vulnerable citizens.
Urgent Need for Sustainable Migration Solutions
The disclosure that 7,000 Nigerians are stranded in Libya in 2025 should serve as a wake-up call. While rescue and repatriation efforts remain important, sustainable development at home is the most effective long-term solution.
With the IOM’s new strategic plan and NiDCOM’s advocacy, stakeholders now have an opportunity to create safe migration pathways, reduce irregular migration, and provide hope for Nigerians seeking a better future.
