The voluntary repatriation of Nigerien migrants from Libya has been halted for the past ten months, according to Niger’s chargé d'affaires in Libya, Abdoul Aziz Loulé Harou.
The suspension comes despite ongoing efforts by Libya’s Anti-Illegal Immigration Agency, in collaboration with the United Nations, to facilitate return flights for migrants.
Speaking in Tripoli on Monday, Harou met with Libya’s Minister of Labour and Rehabilitation, Ali Al-Abed, to discuss the situation of Nigerien workers and the regulation of foreign labour in Libya.
Al-Abed underscored the importance of registering workers on the Wafed digital platform, conducting medical screenings, and ensuring legal documentation for those seeking employment in Libya.
He also emphasized the need for greater awareness among the Nigerien community regarding employment regulations and assured that the ministry would work on addressing challenges related to voluntary repatriation and exit visas.
Harou attributed the suspension of repatriation flights to restrictions on land routes in Al-Shuwayrif and delays in issuing exit visas for air travel, making the return process difficult.
He confirmed that the Nigerien embassy in Tripoli is working with Libyan authorities to resume voluntary repatriations once these logistical issues are resolved.
