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COVID-19: Britain to begin evacuation of nationals in Nigeria

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The British Mission in Nigeria said on Tuesday evacuation flights for its citizens who wished to return to the United Kingdom as a result of the coronavirus would depart from Lagos and Abuja from April 18.

The Mission said in a statement the flights would leave the two cities on Saturday while an additional flight would be operated from Lagos on April 20.

It, however, said potential evacuees would be required to pay for their flight tickets.

According to the British Mission, vulnerable people including those with underlying health conditions and those who are visitors to Nigeria would be prioritised.

It said: “Our first flights are expected to leave both Lagos and Abuja on Saturday 18 April with a further flight from Lagos on 20 April.

“You will not be able to pick your departure date – the online booking process will generate it automatically. More flights will follow, depending on demand.

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“Anyone flying back to the UK on an HMG chartered flight will need to pay for their own ticket. To be eligible for a flight your primary residence has to be in the UK.

“We will prioritise helping the most vulnerable return, so those who have an underlying medical condition placing them at greater risk of serious illness if they contact COVID-19.

“We are coordinating with the Federal and State government to help ensure that those of you who are outside of Abuja and Lagos can get to the airports despite the lockdown.”

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