In a startling revelation, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has disclosed that over 5,000 Nigerian women are currently stranded in Iraq after being deceptively sent there as caregivers. This alarming development was confirmed via the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of Nigerian Stories, sparking widespread outrage and concern over the plight of these women.
The women, many of whom were lured by promises of lucrative caregiving jobs, now find themselves trapped in dire conditions. Reports suggest that the reality of their situation is far removed from the assurances given to them before leaving Nigeria. Instead of caregiving roles, many have reportedly been subjected to exploitation, abuse, and inhumane working conditions, with little to no means of escape.
NiDCOM, the government agency responsible for the welfare of Nigerians abroad, described the situation as a humanitarian crisis, urging immediate intervention to rescue the stranded women.
The revelation has sparked a wave of criticism aimed at unscrupulous agents and trafficking networks responsible for facilitating the illegal migration of these women. Advocacy groups and citizens alike are demanding accountability from both local and international actors involved in this exploitative scheme.
“The government must take swift action to repatriate our women and bring the perpetrators of this modern-day slavery to justice,” said a social commentator on X.
In its response, NiDCOM has assured Nigerians that it is collaborating with relevant agencies, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Nigerian Embassy in Iraq, to secure the safe return of the stranded women. However, the sheer scale of the crisis—over 5,000 victims—poses a daunting challenge.
The Commission has also called for increased public awareness about the dangers of human trafficking and the need for stringent regulation of agencies offering overseas job placements.
This is not the first time Nigerians have fallen victim to trafficking networks promising better opportunities abroad. Similar cases have been reported in countries like Lebanon, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, underscoring the systemic nature of the issue.
As the nation grapples with this heart-wrenching revelation, the urgent question remains: How many more will be deceived before decisive action is taken to end this cycle of exploitation?
NiDCOM’s appeal for international collaboration signals hope for these stranded women, but the clock is ticking. Nigeria must act swiftly to protect its citizens, uphold their dignity, and ensure justice for the victims of this grave injustice.
PIONEER NEWS 