The Federal Government has advised Nigerians currently abroad to remain where they are as people travelling from one place to another stand a higher risk of getting infected with Covid-19.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama disclosed this in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Ferdinand Nwonye and issued to newsmen in Abuja on Thursday.
“It should be noted that medical experts have advised that it is better for individuals to remain where they are, as people travelling from one place to another stand a higher risk of getting infected with COVID-19,”
Meanwhile the United States Mission in Nigeria has repatriated 997 Americans back to their homeland to reunite with family and friends during this time of COVID-19 pandemic.
He also noted that as regards the Federal Government’s initiative to provide necessary airlift assistance to stranded Nigerians abroad who require emergency evacuation, the Minister said that staff of the Missions are reaching out to Nigerians in their respective host countries and in due course, the necessary details provided will enable the Federal Government work out the logistics for proper implementation.
The Minister who said the country’s Diplomatic Missions abroad are still discharging their essential duties, amidst the current challenges caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic, noted that only Officers responsible for strategic duties are to report to the Chancery on the basis of exigencies, while others are to perform essential assignments from home, to minimize contact at the office.
He said the Missions have continued to liaise with other countries, as well as, international organizations and render reports on key developments, with a view to boosting the domestic efforts back home.
“Furthermore, our Heads of Mission have maintained communication with the leadership of the Ministry at this period, to keep the Ministry informed of the conditions of Nigerians in their respective host countries” he said.
Mr Onyeama said Nigerian Missions are expected to adhere strictly to all safety guidelines by host authorities in their respective posts, in order to protect officers, members of their families and others from the risk of exposure.
