The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has responded to the widespread concern over the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens stranded in Sudan due to the ongoing conflict in the country.
In a statement released by NEMA, it was revealed that the agency is in constant communication with all relevant partners, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian Embassy in Khartoum, Sudan, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and security agencies. NEMA is seeking an appropriate window of opportunity to evacuate all stranded Nigerians back home in a safe and dignified manner.
According to the statement, the current emergency situation in Sudan is very complex with fighting between warring factions ongoing, and all airports and land borders closed. NEMA is working tirelessly with all its partners and is constantly compiling updated information on the situation.
To facilitate the evacuation, a committee comprising of professional emergency responders and search and rescue experts has been set up to constantly evaluate the situation and seek the safest way to evacuate Nigerian citizens, even if it is through a neighboring country.
The Director General of NEMA, Mustapha Habib Ahmed, has assured the public that the agency is very much concerned and on top of the situation. He emphasized that NEMA is exploring all possible options of bringing the stranded Nigerians back home to their loved ones in a safe and dignified manner.
As the situation in Sudan remains unpredictable, NEMA has urged Nigerians in Sudan to remain calm and stay in touch with the Nigerian Embassy in Khartoum for further information and assistance. NEMA also advised Nigerians to follow all safety precautions and avoid unnecessary movements until a safe evacuation plan is put in place.
