In a decisive diplomatic intervention, the Federal Government of Nigeria has begun the evacuation of several Nigerian nationals stranded in Bambari, a remote region in the Central African Republic (CAR), following public outcry over their abandonment by employers.
According to a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigerian consular officials in Bangui have established contact with the affected stranded individuals and are coordinating their safe relocation and repatriation.
“The affected Nigerians have been contacted by our Mission in the Central African Republic. Their passports have been retrieved, and a vehicle has been dispatched to Bambari for evacuation,” Ebienfa stated.
He confirmed that the evacuees are expected to arrive in Bangui under military escort on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in a move that prioritizes their safety, dignity, and human rights.
🎥 Viral Video Sparks Diplomatic Response
The government’s intervention comes in response to a widely circulated video depicting the Nigerians stranded in deplorable conditions in Bambari, a town located over 850 kilometres from the CAR capital, Bangui.
The video alleged that the workers — believed to have been employed under questionable terms — were abandoned without food, shelter, or wages by their facilitators and employers. The footage sparked outrage among Nigerians and diaspora human rights advocates, prompting swift action from Abuja.
Government Presses Employers, Ensures Welfare
Ebienfa disclosed that the Nigerian Embassy is actively engaging the employers responsible for the workers’ presence in the country. Discussions are ongoing to secure temporary accommodation and welfare support for the affected individuals in Bangui pending their full repatriation.
“The Ministry remains committed to upholding the dignity and rights of Nigerian citizens anywhere in the world,” the statement emphasized.
⚠️ Advisory for Nigerians Seeking Jobs Abroad
In a sobering reminder, the Ministry urged Nigerians to thoroughly vet employment opportunities abroad and ensure that their travel and work documentation is complete, legal, and transparent.
It further advised Nigerians to register with Nigerian embassies in foreign countries upon arrival — a step that can make the difference in emergencies requiring consular assistance.
“Verifying the credibility of recruiters and employers is vital,” Ebienfa noted. “Embassy registration is not just a formality; it’s a lifeline in times of crisis.”
BRANDECONOMY INSIGHT: The Human Cost of Labour Migration
This latest episode underscores the growing vulnerabilities of Nigerian migrant workers, especially in conflict-affected or underregulated regions of the world. As Nigeria ramps up labour export frameworks under various bilateral agreements, ensuring proper pre-departure orientation, legal safeguards, and embassy tracking mechanisms will be critical to protecting citizens abroad.
The Ministry’s swift reaction is commendable, but the situation also highlights the urgent need for stronger enforcement of ethical labour recruitment standards, both at home and abroad.
