The Nigerian government has come to the aid of its citizens who were stuck in the Central African Republic (CAR). These Nigerians had been stranded while working in the country and are now being safely brought back home.

This news was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through a statement released on Tuesday, July 29. The statement was signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

Just last week, a video had surfaced online showing the workers crying out for help. They accused their Chinese employer of taking away their passports and holding them in Bambari — a town located about 850 kilometres away from the capital city, Bangui.

According to the Ministry’s statement, officials from the Nigerian government were able to find the workers and ensure their rescue. Plans are now in place to return them to Nigeria as quickly as possible.

Ebienfa shared that Nigerian officials in CAR made direct contact with the stranded citizens. They also worked with local authorities in CAR to guarantee the workers’ safety and arrange their return.

Their seized passports have been recovered. A vehicle was also sent to transport them from Bambari to Bangui. The Ministry is also arranging temporary accommodation and support for them in Bangui before they travel back to Nigeria.

Finally, the Ministry urged Nigerians planning to work abroad to always confirm the legitimacy of their employers and ensure they have the right documents before travelling.