The world eco-system and its geo-physical structure creates space for movement of people, goods and services from one place to another.
According to a globally rated travel magazine, it is estimated that Nigerians are the leading travelers among all countries in Africa.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the tide has changed and Nigeria is now the leading country with the number of returnees escaping from their foreign safe havens due to rampaging pandemic.
Research findings reveal that so many Nigerians in their large number on a daily basis are fleeing from countries like the United Kingdom, America, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and other neighboring countries.
Worried about this development, Nigerians especially families of people living abroad have been making their voices loud on the plight and possible evacuation and re-integration of their loved ones.
The federal government of Nigeria under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari must be commended for rising up to the challenge of COVID-19 pandemic.
It has demonstrated responsibility as stated in section 14(2) b of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended in 2010 which states that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.
As far as COVID-19 pandemic and Nigerian returnees are concerned, the government has discharged that constitutional mandate as all the returnees are made to feel welcome in their fatherland.
They are being made to undergo all COVID-19 pandemic safety protocols.
However, it must be pointed out that there are many battles ahead of the government and the entire nation.
The emerging scenario is that many Nigerians now look at these returnees with suspicion and will do anything to avoid them.
Whereas majority of these returnees do not test positive to COVID-19 as they were subjected to series of tests before being allowed into the country.
All organs of government at every level should provide information and awareness platforms so as to re-integrate the returnees back into the society.
Non-government organizations, civil society groups, religious and communities leaders as well as the media also have roles to play in education and orientation of Nigerians, so they can see the returnees as their kinsmen and women.
Tayo Sanni