The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs has received 130 Nigerians from the country’s embassy in Romania.
This was revealed in a statement, by the ministry explained that it has also provided accommodation for them while arrangements are being made to take them back home.
“Also, officials at Budapest, Hungary have received and accommodated 74 Nigerians safely, where they are being documented for subsequent travel arrangements back to Nigeria,” the statement, signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, read.
According to him, another batch of about 200 Nigerians is expected in Budapest later in the day. He also said 52 persons have been received in Warsaw, Poland. Of the number, 23 are being processed at the Polish Government Reception Point at Hala Kijowska.
“The camp is well organised with beds and beddings, food, heating, clothing, and medicals for evacuees,” the statement added.
“We assure Nigerians that all hands are on deck and arrangements are being put in place to effectively evacuate our citizens, in safety and dignity.”
The Federal Government’s recent move was a sequel to the Russian invasion of Ukraine about five days ago. On Sunday, the ministry said the Hungarian and Romanian governments have approved visa-free access to Nigerians coming from the Eastern European nation.
“For now, movement to the Hungarian Zahony border and Romanian Suceava, Tulcea, Satu Mare County & Maramures borders is advised, as they have approved visa-free access to all Nigerians coming from Ukraine and arrangements for accommodation and feeding before evacuation is arranged,” Aduda said.
Right To Safe Passage
On the same day, the presidency described reports of Nigerians being barred from exiting Ukraine as “unfortunate”. It said the government is concerned about the safety and human rights of all Nigerians.
“We understand the pain and fear that is confronting all people who find themselves in this terrifying place,” presidential aide, Garba Shehu, said in a statement.
“We also appreciate that those in official positions in security and border management will in most cases be experiencing impossible expectations in a situation they never expected. But, for that reason, it is paramount that everyone is treated with dignity and without favour.
“All who flee a conflict situation have the same right to safe passage under UN Convention and the colour of their passport or their skin should make no difference.”