The Federal Government has announced plans to evacuate a group of stranded Nigerian nationals from the Central African Republic following a viral video that drew attention to their plight.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed that officials of the Nigerian Mission in the Central African Republic have established contact with the affected individuals.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that the affected Nigerians have been contacted by the hardworking officials of our Mission in the Central African Republic,” the statement read.
Ebienfa disclosed that the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui is working closely with relevant authorities to guarantee the safety, protection, and timely repatriation of the citizens.
According to him, the stranded individuals had been abandoned by their employers and facilitators in Bambari, a remote town approximately 850 kilometres from the capital city, Bangui.
“Their passports have been successfully retrieved, and a vehicle has been dispatched to Bambari to evacuate the stranded Nigerians to Bangui. They are expected to arrive in the capital city with military escort on Saturday, July 26, 2025,” Ebienfa added.
He further noted that discussions are underway with the company responsible for the workers to ensure provision of accommodation and basic welfare needs while arrangements are finalised for their return to Nigeria.
The video that sparked public concern showed several Nigerian nationals, believed to be laborers, calling for urgent assistance after being allegedly left stranded without support in the conflict-prone region.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad and assured the public that every necessary measure is being taken to bring the affected citizens home safely.
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