‘Rescue efforts underway’ — NIDCOM assures stranded Nigerians in CAR

By Boye Oyeyemi –

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed that efforts are ongoing to assist a group of Nigerian citizens reportedly stranded and mistreated in the Central African Republic.

In a statement released on Thursday via X (formerly Twitter) and signed by Abdur Rahman Balogun, NiDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, the Commission praised embassy officials for their swift and effective intervention.

The development follows a viral video showing victims appealing to the Nigerian government for help. In the footage, they alleged they were deceived, forced to work for 11 months without pay, and had their passports seized.

NiDCOM stated that it had contacted the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui to investigate the situation. According to the Commission, contact has now been made with the affected individuals, and their passports have been successfully recovered.

“Arrangements are currently being made to transport the group to the embassy in Bangui,” the statement said.

The Commission also confirmed that the agent responsible for their ordeal has been identified and is under scrutiny.

NiDCOM reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerians abroad and assured the public that further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.