FG Brings Back 1,230 Nigerians Stranded In Niger

The Federal Government has repatriated 1,230 Nigerians stranded in Niger, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday in Abuja.

The returnees arrived in Nigeria in two batches and were received in Kano on March 23 and March 29, where authorities began documentation and support processes.

On arrival, the evacuees were profiled and moved to the Immigration Training School in Kano, where they were provided temporary shelter and basic assistance before being reunited with their families.

The evacuation was carried out in collaboration with several partners, including the International Organization for Migration, as part of efforts to support Nigerians in distress abroad.

A multi agency team comprising the National Emergency Management Agency, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons participated in the process.

Other stakeholders included the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, as well as representatives of Kano and Katsina State governments.

Spokesperson of the ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the exercise reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens.

“After the necessary procedures, the evacuees were discharged and reunited with their families,” he said.

He also commended the government of Niger for its cooperation and urged Nigerians living abroad to remain law abiding and maintain contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions.