The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured Nigerians that amidst the current challenging situation caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic, the country’s Diplomatic Missions abroad are still discharging their essential duties.
Ekwi Ajide of our Abuja Bureau reports that according to a statement signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson in Abuja, Mr. Ferdinand Nwonye, 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.
The statement further noted, that Heads of Mission have maintained communication with the leadership of the Ministry at this period, to keep the Ministry informed on the conditions of Nigerians in their respective host countries.
It recalled that in order to ensure the safety of members of staff, following the spread of the Coronavirus, Missions were requested to take appropriate measures to facilitate the continued discharge of their official duties, despite restrictions adding 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.
The statement urged all Nigerian Missions 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.
As regards the Federal Government’s initiative to provide necessary airlift assistance to stranded Nigerian Nationals abroad who require emergency evacuation, the Ministry informed 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 logistics for proper implementation.
The statement advised citizens to adhere strictly to medical experts advice and remain where they are, as people who travel from one place to another stand a higher risk of getting infected with COVID-19.
It further stated that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama appreciated the sacrifices of the Heads of Missions and members of staff, at post and Headquarters, at this challenging time in global history and reassured all Nigerians abroad of total support and best wishes.
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