The Federal Government has commenced the repatriation of stranded Nigerian workers in the Central African Republic (CAR) following the emergence of a viral video showing their abandonment by employers and labour facilitators.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, 25 July 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Nigerian nationals affected by the situation had been contacted and their passports retrieved in preparation for evacuation.
According to ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, officials at the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui are actively engaging CAR authorities to ensure the safety and swift return of the stranded workers.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that the affected Nigerians have been contacted by our officials in the Central African Republic,” Ebienfa stated.
He added that arrangements are in place to convey the stranded individuals from Bambari to Bangui, noting that a vehicle had already been dispatched, with military escort expected upon arrival on Saturday, 26 July.
The video that triggered the intervention showed Nigerian nationals stranded in Bambari—approximately 850km from Bangui—reportedly abandoned by their employers.
Ebienfa revealed that discussions were ongoing with the company involved to provide temporary accommodation and welfare assistance to the affected Nigerians upon arrival in Bangui, pending their final return to Nigeria.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens abroad:
“The ministry remains committed to ensuring the rights, welfare, and dignity of Nigerians anywhere in the world.”
The ministry advised Nigerians seeking overseas employment to verify potential employers and ensure all documentation is in place prior to travel. Ebienfa also urged Nigerians abroad to register with Nigerian embassies to facilitate prompt support in times of crisis.
