Following the building-up of tension in Ukraine as a result of invasion by the Russian authority, the Nigerian Government has urged its citizen trapped in the crises to stay safe and avoid trouble areas that may endanger their lives. Ukraine comes under attack by the Russian forces and has trapped many nationals after several threats of sanctions and truce attempted by some world prominent leaders have failed to yield any result. The Nigerian Embassy in Ukraine said this was just an advisory appeal to its citizens to take responsibility for their security while the country resolves its crises.
The Nigerian advice followed the response to the declaration of a state of emergency and martial law on the entire territory of Ukraine except for the breakaway, Donetsk, and Luhansk regions.
The statement partly said, “We this, regional commissions are to decide on the necessary security measures to adopt in strengthening the protection of public order and facilities for the safety of the citizenry and running of the economy in their domain.”
It added that “It can be restriction of movement, an additional inspection, and verification of certain documents of individuals, among others. These are preventive measures aimed at ensuring that the country remains calm and the economy continues to function uninterrupted, while it lasted.
“In view of this development, the Embassy urges Nigerian nationals resident in Ukraine to remain calm but be very vigilant and be responsible for their personal security and safety.
“The Embassy wishes to add that should any of Nigerian nationals consider the situation as emotionally disturbing, such nationals may wish to temporarily relocate to anywhere considered safe by private arrangements. They should, however, ensure that they do all the needful to validate all their resident documents for ease of return to the country when desired.
“In addition, in case of students seeking temporary relocation, they are enjoined to seek proper clearance and guarantee from their respective institutions, authorities/agents on the way forward in respect to their studies during this period and/or thereafter.
“For those who still consider it appropriate to remain in the country, he assured that the embassy remains open for its consular duties and responsibilities at all times. It will always avail you of updates when necessary.”
Meanwhile, the member's House of Representatives has demanded that all Nigerians should be evacuated from Ukraine.