Foreign
THE Nigerian Lawyers Association South Africa (NLASA) has called on the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa to provide an official update on the status of the repatriation programme for stranded Nigerians in the country.
In a statement, NLASA said it had received numerous complaints, enquiries and requests for legal guidance from Nigerians regarding uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the proposed evacuation and repatriation initiative.
The association acknowledged efforts by the Nigerian Mission, the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA), and other stakeholders to assist vulnerable Nigerians resident in South Africa.
However, it stressed the need for affected persons to receive clear, accurate and timely information on the programme.
According to NLASA, concerns raised by members of the Nigerian community include the absence of clear communication on the current status of the repatriation exercise and the lack of updates for many individuals who registered for the programme.
The association also noted concerns over accommodation, welfare and safety issues affecting persons who may have relied on earlier announcements regarding the evacuation exercise.
It further highlighted growing anxiety and uncertainty among stranded Nigerians awaiting clarification on the process.
NLASA urged the Nigerian High Commission to provide an official update on the status of the programme and clarify the number of persons registered as well as the criteria adopted for participation.
The association also requested information on any challenges affecting implementation of the programme and called for the publication of a realistic roadmap and timeline for the next steps.
In addition, it advocated the establishment of a dedicated communication channel through which affected persons could obtain verified information.
The association said transparency and effective communication were essential to maintaining public confidence and preventing misinformation, speculation and unnecessary distress within the Nigerian community in South Africa.
“NLASA remains available to engage constructively with the Nigerian Mission, NUSA, NICASA and all relevant stakeholders in seeking practical and lawful solutions that protect the dignity and welfare of Nigerian citizens affected by this situation,” the statement said.
It also appealed to members of the Nigerian community to remain peaceful, patient and law-abiding while awaiting official communication from the relevant authorities.
According to the association, the welfare of Nigerians abroad is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration, transparency and accountability to achieve sustainable solutions.
F.O
Tags: Stranded Nigerians in S.A