Checkout Magazine has learned that not less than 2,000 Nigerians fleeing the Russia-Ukraine war are taking refuge in Poland.
This came as the Polish government announced over two million refugees fleeing the Russia-Ukraine War have been allowed passage into the country.
The Embassy of Poland in Nigeria released a statement yesterday titled: “Poland stands with Ukraine – the spirit of Polish solidarity reborn.”
The statement reads: “This February, Europe witnessed an unprecedented and unprovoked military attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine. In the wake of the unjustified invasion, Poland, which is Ukraine’s next-door neighbor, 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 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.”
It added: “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, the transport was provided to receptive points where further assistance and help were provided by local government authorities. Moreover, country legislation was amended to cater to 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. Ukrainian children are allowed 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.”
