There are about 147 Nigerians stranded in South Africa due to the global covid-19 pandemic awaiting evacuation, it has been learnt.
This number is beside others who had signified interest to return to Nigeria.
The stranded Nigerians in South Africa comprises of students research work, those who went for conferences, holiday, medicals and business but for the global lockdown they are still there and are eager to return home.
Nigeria High Commissioner to South Africa, Mr. Kabiru Bala who confirmed this, said the commission is already in talks with the South African and Ethiopian airlines.
Bala said the High Commission is also in contact with the government of South Africa on the evacuation process.
He said, “We have about 147 Nigerians stranded and others who have registered with the High Commission and consulate in Pretoria and Johannesburg.
“We are in talks with SAA and ET airlines on cost, modalities, dates… we are also in contact with South African authorities in regard to the evacuation.”
South Africa is Africa worst hit by the pandemic with over 8,895 confirmed cases and about 200 deaths.
