The Federal Government (FG) has initiated efforts to rescue and repatriate a group of its citizens abandoned by their employers in the Central African Republic (CAR).
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed this action in a statement released on Friday.
This followed the widespread circulation of a video depicting the distressed Nigerians in the remote Bambari region, approximately 850 kilometers from CAR’s capital, Bangui.
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According to Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officials from the Nigerian Mission in the Central African Republic have established contact with the affected individuals.
The Embassy of Nigeria in Bangui is now actively collaborating with local authorities to ensure the safety, well-being, and prompt return of the stranded workers.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is deeply concerned about the welfare of Nigerian workers currently stranded in the Central African Republic,” the statement added.
It acknowledged the viral video showing nationals abandoned by their employers and facilitators.
The Ministry further detailed the ongoing rescue operation: “The affected Nigerians have been contacted by the hardworking officials of our Mission in the Central African Republic, and the Embassy of Nigeria in Bangui is actively engaging with relevant authorities to ensure the safety, protection, and swift repatriation of the affected Nigerian nationals.”
Their passports have been retrieved, and a vehicle, accompanied by a military escort, has been dispatched to Bambari to transport them to Bangui.
They are expected to arrive in the capital city on Saturday, July 26.
Discussions are also underway with the company responsible for their employment to secure their accommodation and welfare in Bangui, as well as their subsequent journey back to Nigeria.
Reaffirming its dedication to safeguarding its citizens globally, the FG urged Nigerians seeking employment abroad to exercise caution.
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It advised prospective travelers to thoroughly verify the credibility of potential employers and ensure all travel documents are in proper order before departure.
Additionally, Nigerians residing in foreign countries are encouraged to register their presence and that of their employees with the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission to prevent difficulties in the event of consular issues.
