The Federal Government on Monday has begun the evacuation of about 241 Nigerians who had been trapped in China, the President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (East China), Elijah Odii, said on Monday. According to The Punch, Odii sent a statement from the Nigerian Embassy in Beijing, China entitled ‘Re: Evacuation of Nigerians from the People’s Republic of China’. The statement reads,

“Further to our press release of June 4 and July 24, 2020, and communications with prospective evacuees, on the above subject matter, the Embassy wishes to inform that the scheduled date of departure from Guangzhou to Lagos via Air Peace Flight 5N-BWI (B777-300) is Monday, August 24, 2020. “In this regard, prospective evacuees are advised to conclude all arrangements, including taking COVID – 19 tests and securing necessary exit visas against the date. Travellers are further advised to arrive Guangzhou at least a day to the journey to avoid complications. Warm regards.”

Odii said there was a possibility that not all those currently at the airport would be allowed to board as some were yet to complete checking in. He said,

“Our embassy here in China is executing evacuation of stranded Nigerians today, August 24. The evacuees will leave Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport on Air Peace. “They are currently at the airport. But I’m informed that not all 241 may leave as they are yet to complete checking in. It may be possible that something may make a few persons not to be allowed to fly but now not sure yet.”

He also stated that some Nigerians who went for studies in China were concluding their graduation, while the Nigerians Ambassador/Consul-General has been congratulating them. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has also concluded plans to evacuate no fewer than 174 Nigerians from Dubai, the United Arab Emirates [UAE] on Tuesday, 25th August 2020, the Nigerian in Diaspora commission [NIDCOM] has revealed. According to the agency, the Nigerians, whose flight would be paid for by the UAE government, will be evacuated aboard a Fly Dubai flight. WuzupNigeria reports that once the 174 Nigerians are evacuated, the total number of Nigerians evacuated gratis by Dubai authorities will amount to 1,071.