The Federal Government has rescued a group of Nigerian workers who were stranded in the Bambari region of the Central African Republic (CAR), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Tuesday.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Mr. Kimiebi Ebienfa, made the disclosure in Abuja, following the circulation of a viral video showing the distressed Nigerians, who were reportedly abandoned by their employers and facilitators.
The incident occurred in Bambari, a remote area located about 850 kilometres from the country’s capital, Bangui.
According to Ebienfa, the Ministry acted swiftly after being alerted to the situation and has since secured the safety and temporary custody of the affected individuals.
“The stranded Nigerian workers in CAR 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 CAR for the successful operation.
“Nigeria is working. Following the video that went viral the necessary action was taken. God bless the team at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
Ebienfa explained that the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui established contact with the victims and coordinated efforts with local authorities to ensure their protection and safe evacuation.
He further explained that the ministry also engaged with relevant authorities there, and ensured their safety, protection and swift repatriation.
The ministry’s spokesman said that their passports were retrieved successfully and a vehicle was sent to Bambari to evacuate them to Bangui.
Ebienfa said that discussions were also ongoing with a company for their accommodation and welfare while in Bangui and their subsequent repatriation to Nigeria.
In a broader advisory, Ebienfa urged Nigerians seeking employment opportunities abroad to exercise caution and verify the credibility of any prospective employer or recruitment agency before travelling.
“Nigerians are also advised to register their presence and that of their employees with the Embassy of Nigeria whenever they are in any foreign country, to avert unpleasant experiences in event of consular issues,” he said.
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