Why we evacuated our citizens from Nigeria-US

 

The United States has explained why she evacuated her citizens from Nigeria amidst the ravaging coronavirus pandemic, stating that the country places priority on the safety of Americans overseas.

In a terse statement issued on the US Embassy Nigeria social media platforms Tuesday morning, the embassy said many Americans want to return to their country to be with their family and friends at this time.

Recall that the United States Mission in Nigeria had announced the commencement of evacuation of its citizens from Nigeria.
This came after Germany, Israel, and France evacuated their nationals following the rising cases of coronavirus disease in the country.
The Embassy, which confirmed the development on Monday night on its official Twitter handle, @US Mission Nigeria, said multiple emergency flights departing from Lagos and Abuja had been confirmed for this week.

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However, Tuesday’s statement read: “In times of emergency, the first priority of the U.S. Department of State is the safety of American citizens overseas.

 

“For that reason, throughout the world, we are working to ensure that Americans who want to return home are able to get home.
“We appreciate the efforts of the Nigerian government to keep everyone safe.

“It is also understandable that many Americans will want to return to be with their friends and family at this time, especially those who did not plan for an extended stay in Nigeria.

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“Please note that the U.S. Mission is still operating and plans to continue the important work of representing the American people here. We ask all Americans who remain to join us in abiding by the rules the Nigerian Government has put in place to keep us all healthy and safe. By working together, we will get through this crisis together.”

Wole Shadare