By [Ameh Gabriel], Media360Impact
The Federal Government of Nigeria has successfully evacuated several Nigerian nationals who were left stranded in the Central African Republic (CAR), following an urgent diplomatic intervention by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui.
In a statement released on Tuesday, spokesperson for the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed the rescue operation, noting that the affected workers are now safely in the custody of the Nigerian mission.
“Good news! Stranded Nigerian workers in the Central African Republic have been successfully rescued and are currently in the custody of the Embassy of Nigeria in Bangui. A very big commendation to the staff of the Embassy and the Government of the Central African Republic for the successful operation,” Ebienfa stated.
The development follows the circulation of a distressing video showing the Nigerian workers, allegedly abandoned by their employer in Bambari — a remote town approximately 850 kilometres from the capital, Bangui. The video quickly gained traction on social media, drawing national concern and prompting immediate action from the Nigerian government.
According to the ministry, officials from the Nigerian Mission had earlier established contact with the stranded individuals, collected their passports, and coordinated their safe transport to Bangui under a secured military escort.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the company responsible for employing the Nigerians to ensure the provision of temporary shelter and support pending their return to Nigeria.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad, the ministry urged citizens seeking employment overseas to verify the credibility of their recruiters and ensure they travel with proper documentation.
Ebienfa also emphasized the importance of registering with Nigerian missions abroad, stating that such proactive measures significantly ease consular support and emergency interventions.
