The Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) in Libya, with assistance from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has successfully repatriated over 100 Nigerian women and children via Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli. This information was shared on Tuesday by Migrant Rescue Watch through its social media account.
The statement highlighted that the repatriation involved more than 100 Nigerian migrants, many of whom were traveling with their children. This development comes amidst ongoing reports of human rights violations faced by migrants in Libya.
Earlier, SaharaReporters reported the arrest of at least 37 Nigerians implicated in an international criminal network operating between Nigeria and Libya. These individuals were charged with various offenses, including facilitating illegal immigration and engaging in activities such as kidnapping and drug trafficking.
The Public Prosecution has confirmed the dismantling of these criminal organizations, noting intelligence reports that had identified meetings among irregular migrants coordinating illegal operations through several notorious groups, including “High Viking,” “EMSI,” “Eye,” “Black Axe,” and the “New Black Movement in Africa.”
In a recent announcement, the Libyan Attorney General’s Office emphasized the collaboration among law enforcement agencies to infiltrate these networks, underscoring the severe consequences of their actions for both national and regional security. The prosecution detailed that many of the suspects operated like traditional criminal gangs within Libya.
They concluded that 35 illegal immigrants were connected to these networks, which are primarily based in Nigeria, serving as hubs for their illicit operations.
Nigerian Government to Implement New Minimum Wage
In related news, the Nigerian government has announced that civil servants will begin receiving a new minimum wage of N70,000 starting Thursday, September 26. This adjustment follows approval from President Bola Tinubu after extensive negotiations with labor representatives.
SaharaReporters reported in July that the Tripartite Committee on the national minimum wage had agreed to the new salary scale for public workers across the country. The decision was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding issued after a committee meeting.
Bawa Mokwa, the spokesperson for the Office of the Accountant-General, confirmed this news exclusively to DAILY POST, stating that the implementation begins today. However, he noted uncertainty regarding whether the new wage would include arrears.
“The new minimum wage payments will commence today,” Mokwa said. “I cannot confirm if any back pay will be included.”
This announcement follows confirmation from Ekpo Nta, Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, that the government had approved a revised salary structure to align with the Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act of 2024.
In addition, SaharaReporters reported that the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members has been increased from N33,000 to N77,000. This increment will take effect from July 2024, aligning with the recent changes in the minimum wage legislation.
A statement from the NYSC’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu, expressed gratitude for the government’s decision, stating that it would enhance the welfare of corps members and motivate them in their national service.
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