Millions released, 2 airlines selected to evacuate thousands of Nigerians trapped in Ukraine

As tension rises in Ukraine, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved $8.5 million for the evacuation of Nigerians trapped in the Russian onslaught on its country.

Zubairu Dada, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, disclosed this on Wednesday.

Dada said the approval was given on Wednesday at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo.

The minister said AirPeace and Max Air airlines have been selected to provide three aircraft to facilitate the evacuation of Nigerians.

No fewer than 5,000 Nigerian students, among others, have been affected.

Nigerian embassies in Romania, Hungary, and Poland have received over 256 of them.

Geoffrey Onyeama, the Minister of Foreign Affairs said evacuation commenced Wednesday.