A Nigerian businessman and tourist, who found himself stranded in France after being robbed of his international passport and other belongings, has successfully secured an Emergency Travel Certificate following a viral video appeal.
The traveler, who could be simply identified as Mr Joseph, shared his ordeal online, lamenting the difficulties he faced at the Nigerian embassy in France.
“I am the most frustrated Nigerian tourist right now,” he said in one of the videos. “I came here planning to visit a few other countries, but I was robbed of my passport and personal belongings. I had to block my bank cards, and now I need an Emergency Travel Certificate to return home. But when I arrived at the Nigerian embassy on Monday morning, I was told they couldn’t assist me because it was a public holiday in Nigeria. I find this hard to believe because other countries provide emergency consular services to their citizens, regardless of holidays. Now, I’m stuck here with no idea how long this will last.”
Following the widespread attention his video received, intervention came swiftly. Embassy officials eventually responded, issuing him the necessary travel document despite the public holiday.
Now relieved, he shared an update, expressing gratitude to those who intervened.
“I’m smiling now because I got my ETC, and on a public holiday, no less!” he said. “After my last video, several people reached out, and the consular officers made an exception to help me. I was supposed to pay for the document, but they gave it to me free of charge. This is five-star service!”
He concluded by thanking the Nigerian embassy staff and everyone who contributed to resolving his situation.
“To the Nigerian embassy in France, the consular officers, and all those who played a role in helping me—I sincerely appreciate your efforts. Thank you so much.”
His experience highlights the power of social media in addressing urgent issues and the importance of embassies providing round-the-clock support for their citizens abroad.
