The revelation that over 7,000 Nigerians are currently stranded in Libya has reignited national concern over the socio-economic realities driving irregular migration from Nigeria.
The disclosure was made by the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, during the official launch of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Strategic Plan for Nigeria 2025–2027 in Abuja.
Dabiri-Erewa described the situation as “tragic and preventable,” warning that the continued trend of migration through perilous desert routes remains a life-threatening gamble for many Nigerians.
She stated, “As we speak, 7,000 Nigerians are stranded in Libya. In 2025, people will still travel through the desert to die.”
The IOM Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, stressed the collaborative nature of the new strategic plan, noting that the initiative is nationally driven with technical support from IOM.
“This is Nigeria’s strategy supported by IOM, developed through inclusive consultations and shaped by national priorities,” Dimanche explained.
She urged government institutions, stakeholders, and development partners to take ownership of the strategy and ensure its effective implementation.
The growing number of stranded Nigerians is not an isolated occurrence.
On May 10, 2025, 78 victims of human trafficking were repatriated from Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to Lagos following a rescue operation coordinated by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and Air Peace Airlines.
Analysts and stakeholders attribute the rise in irregular migration to a combination of economic hardship, insecurity, and limited opportunities in Nigeria.
Unemployment and rising inflation have exacerbated poverty, pushing citizens to seek survival options abroad, even through dangerous and illegal routes.
“The situation in Nigeria is grim. Hunger is spreading agony across households, and insecurity has made daily life unbearable,” said Dr. Pogu Bitrus, President of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF).
“The numbers we are seeing in Libya reflect the reality that Nigerians are fleeing not only for economic reasons but also for security and survival.”
Residents and social commentators agree that many Nigerians consider migration a necessity rather than a choice.
Mallam Ibrahim Sabiu, a social commentator, explained that stranded migrants often view transit countries such as Libya as stepping stones to Europe.
“Many Nigerians did not intend to stay in Libya; it was meant to be a transit point to Europe. Unfortunately, they discovered that the conditions were far worse than expected,” Sabiu noted.
Similarly, former Katsina State lawmaker Yusuf Shehu highlighted insecurity as a key driver of migration, particularly in northern states affected by banditry, insurgency, and kidnappings.
“People are seeking peace and stability for their families. Even with the dangers in Libya, they perceive it as safer and economically viable compared to their current situation in Nigeria,” Shehu said.
For Lagos-based businessman Samson Odega, the plight of stranded Nigerians underscores government inaction. He warned that if urgent measures are not implemented to address economic instability and insecurity, the trend could worsen.
“A stitch in time saves nine. Authorities must intervene to prevent further loss of lives and national embarrassment,” he cautioned.
Migration expert Osita Osemene, founder of Patriotic Citizens Initiative (PCI), stressed the need for structural reforms.
“The only way to curb this wave of irregular migration is by fixing the economy, creating jobs, and securing lives and property. Nigeria’s abundant resources should benefit its citizens, not push them into danger abroad,” he said.
The NiCOM chairman reiterated that the government must intensify awareness campaigns, strengthen migration policies, and provide realistic local opportunities to stem the flow of Nigerians risking their lives.
She added that the new IOM strategic plan would focus on education, protection, and reintegration programs to assist returnees and prevent future tragedies.
As the government and international partners coordinate responses, the situation highlights the urgent need for policy interventions addressing Nigeria’s economic crisis and insecurity.
With thousands stranded abroad and countless others considering migration, the nation faces a critical test in protecting its citizens and safeguarding human dignity.