FG repatriates 11 stranded Nigerian miners from Central African Republic

The Federal Government, on Thursday, repatriated 11 Nigerian miners who were stranded in the Central African Republic.

According to a statement issued by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Miners arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The returnees were accompanied by the Nigerian Ambassador to the Central African Republic, Ambassador Babagana Ahmed, and were received on arrival by a Federal Government delegation led by the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by the Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Kenneth Oyong.

Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, Mrs. Zubaida welcomed the returnees back to Nigeria and conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the safety and welfare of citizens in distress, as demonstrated in their safe rescue, dignified transportation, and formal reception.

She acknowledged and appreciated the leading role of the Office of the National Security Adviser and the support of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigerian Intelligence Agency toward the success of the exercise.

Ambassador Babagana Ahmed narrated how the miners were abandoned by their employers in a remote location in the Central African Republic, after which they sought help from the Nigerian Embassy in Bangui.

He commended President Tinubu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and relevant agencies for their swift intervention and support in securing the release and repatriation of the stranded citizens.

Speaking on behalf of the returnees, Mr. Freeborn Igorigo expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu and the Federal Government for their timely rescue and the warm, dignified reception accorded to them.