THE Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCO), on Tuesday issued fresh conditions for the evacuation exercise of Nigerians stranded in the United Kingdom arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Over 1,000 Nigerians in the UK are said to have applied to NIDCO for evacuation from the UK back to their fatherland.
In an electronic mail sent to applicants, a copy of which was received by The Nation, the Commission listed proof of a Covid-19 test as a key requirement for intending returnees. This is aside the initial condition that intending returnees will have to pay for the cost of their flight from the UK to Nigeria.
The statement, signed by Inyang E. Inyang, reads: “We have received your application for evacuation from the UK during the COVID-19 period. A major condition for your return will be to have done the COVID-19 test in the UK. You will not be allowed to board without having taken the test. The test is for patients (people)16 years and older. We look forward to bringing you back home.”
NIDCO, according to the statement, explained that while it understands that it may be difficult for some intending returnees to have the test done through the UK NHS as some may not meet the NHS conditions, it however advised that Nigerians in the UK interested in having a private COVID-19 laboratory test within the United Kingdom may consider using private laboratories approved for such test by the UK government. NIDCO advised that one of such facilities can be reached through Dr Funmi Adewara on +447753656688.
“This is a Public Health England-approved COVID-19 testing centre. Laboratory results are said to be within 3-5 working days. So, you are free to make your options and decisions,” the statement said.
Upon the receipt of the test result, individuals are advised to contact NIDCO for further briefing on the evacuation exercise.
A cross section of intending returnees spoken to by The Nation here have hailed the Federal Government initiative.

By Muyiwa Lucas