The Federal Government has successfully evacuated a group of Nigerian workers stranded in the Central African Republic (CAR), following public outcry over their alleged abandonment by a foreign employer.
The evacuees, who had been left in distress by their Chinese employer—Rado Central Coal Mining Company in Bambari, located approximately 850 kilometres from the capital city, Bangui—are now under the protection of the Nigerian Embassy.
The rescue operation was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday. A statement by ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, revealed that officials at the Nigerian Mission in Bangui had established contact with the affected nationals, collected their travel documents, and arranged for their safe transportation to the capital with military escort.
“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,” Ebienfa said.
He commended the Embassy staff and the Central African Republic government for their swift response and support in executing the operation.
The rescue followed the circulation of a viral video in which the Nigerian workers made an emotional plea to the Federal Government, detailing their ordeal after being allegedly abandoned and left without basic necessities.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the number of citizens rescued or whether any further assistance or repatriation plans are underway. However, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigerian citizens globally and urged employers of Nigerian nationals abroad to ensure compliance with international labour standards.
