The Nigerian government has called on Nigerian students in Sudan to remain indoors until further notice, as it finalizes plans for their safe evacuation from the troubled country.
The call comes amid a crisis that has left thousands of Nigerians trapped in the country.
The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Khartoum released a statement on Sunday advising Nigerian students to disregard the notice circulated by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Sudan, which called on students to converge on the African International University, NANSS office, and El-Razi University, for evacuation or to bring $100 or $200 for evacuation.
“As the Embassy had earlier informed students, you are therefore requested to stay calm and remain indoors while the embassy is working on final approval to commence evacuation,” the statement read.
The government has also warned against embarking on a journey towards the borders of Sudan without proper security clearance and guarantees from Sudanese authorities.
“The Embassy wishes to reassure the Nigerian students that their safety and well-being is of priority concern,” the statement added.
The crisis in Sudan has been ongoing, with fighting between forces loyal to Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Hundreds have been killed since the fight broke out between the forces of the two rival generals in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan.
According to reports, about 4,000 Nigerians are trapped as a result of the fighting. The government is working to ensure their safe evacuation from Sudan.
