More Planes For Evacuation Of Stranded Nigerians In Sudan

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/ CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has given an update on the rescue of Nigerians from Sudan.

She has assured more planes are heading to Egypt to evacuate stranded Nigerians in crisis-torn Sudan.

Dabiri-Erewa, who spoke at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja while receiving the the first batch of 376 evacuees,said: At least, they are coming back home and we are glad nobody’s life was lost and priority was given to students, women and children. So, let’s just set our eyes on that.

“So, we are expecting that with the arrangements made by NEMA, there are going to be more planes because Egypt makes it difficult. Egypt says if the number of people you brought is let’s say 200 and the aircraft can only take 150, then nobody will leave. 

“They want to pick the expected number of people that you are bringing into their border.

“If four planes go at the same time, you will bring everybody back. So, NEMA has assured that they have done that for Egypt.”

She also said efforts are also on to evacuate Nigerians in Port Sudan.

The NiDCOM boss said the case of Nigerians at Port Sudan was a little bit different because it was difficult to get a flight to the area. 

She however said alternative means are being considered, including getting them tickets.

She said: “At the Port Sudan, we are trying to get tickets because it is even more difficult to get flight to port Sudan but they have an airline, so they are processing them now l, get them tickets and then they come back home and if other airlines get the landing permit, they will quickly go.”