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The government of Poland has said over two thousand Nigerians fleeing the Russia-Ukraine War have been allowed passage into the European country.
It said the Nigerians are among over two million refugees fleeing Ukraine, who have been allowed into the country.
A statement released on Wednesday by the Embassy of Poland in Nigeria, read: “This February Europe witnessed an unprecedented and unprovoked military attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine. In the wake of the unjustified invasion, Poland, who is Ukraine’s next-door neighbour, immediately extended a helping hand to a friendly nation in need.
“Since February 24, Poland opened its borders to over two million people fleeing Ukraine from the Russian aggression. Although most refugees are obviously Ukrainian, there are also thousands of third-country nationals who found shelter in Poland. Polish authorities let in everyone irrespective of nationality, race or creed. Many of those who crossed the Ukrainian-Polish border were African nationals, including more than two thousand Nigerians.
“The government of Poland went to great lengths and undertook every effort to ensure all refugees received meaningful, effective and comprehensive assistance. Meals were distributed at border crossings, transport was provided to receptive points where further assistance and help were provided by local government authorities.
“Moreover, country legislation was amended to cater for the needs of refugees and facilitate the provision of assistance. All refugees are guaranteed free of charge medical care. Poland accepts and helps terminally ill refugees, the physically challenged and orphans.”
It continued, “Ukrainian children are given the opportunity to resume learning in Polish primary and secondary schools. All Ukrainian citizens can apply for a Polish national identity number which entitles the holder to benefit from social welfare and medical care and many other privileges on a par with Polish citizens.
“Poles open their hearts and homes to refugees. Interestingly enough, it is not only the Polish government that has provided immense assistance but also ordinary Polish citizens contributed to a tremendous bottoms-up response. Individuals, families, neighbourhoods and local communities started helping on their own.
“They brought food, provided transport from the border to every corner of the country, and set up information platforms linking those in need with potential providers of accommodation, clothes, medicine, food etc.
“Accommodation places were created by the government and local governments, but a large number of refugees are hosted in Poles’ private houses. As more and more people arrive, the number of those willing to help is not decreasing. On the contrary, the assistance given by regular Polish citizens is becoming more effective and structured, sensitive to the changing needs of the refugees.
“It is worth mentioning that Polish citizens created special assistance platforms dedicated exclusively to assisting African nationals, a large percentage of whom are Nigerians. The support offered includes, for instance, finding accommodation, translation services and free of charge legal assistance for those wishing to remain in Poland.”
Source: saharareporters
