The Federal Government (FG) of Nigeria has announced its plans to evacuate Nigerian citizens stranded in Israel and Iran amid escalating conflict between the two countries.
A statement released Tuesday night by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, revealed that Nigerian embassies in Tel Aviv and Tehran are actively coordinating efforts to ensure the safe return of affected Nigerians.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that following the escalation of the crisis between the State of Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Federal Government is finalising arrangements for the emergency evacuation of stranded Nigerians in both countries.”
“All affected Nigerian citizens are therefore strongly advised to abide by necessary security protocols and contact the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission for registration and further instructions,” the ministry stated.
The government expressed gratitude to its diplomatic staff in both countries for their commitment to assisting the Nigerian communities during the ongoing crisis.
In addition, the Federal Government noted that it is working closely with international partners and local authorities to guarantee a timely and secure evacuation process.
The statement continued:
“The Ministry commends the efforts put in place by our Missions in Tel Aviv, Israel and Tehran, Iran for their dedication and commitment to reaching out to the Nigerian Community in these difficult times. We wish to assure the general public that the Federal Government of Nigeria remains committed to the safety and welfare of all its citizens, both at home and abroad, and is working in close coordination with relevant international partners and local authorities to ensure the timely and secure evacuation of Nigerians in affected areas.”
In light of the intensifying crisis, Nigeria also renewed its call for a ceasefire and urged all parties to embrace diplomatic dialogue.
The government stressed the need for adherence to international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians.
“In the same vein, the Government of Nigeria reiterates its call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all parties involved to embrace dialogue, respect international humanitarian law and prioritise the protection of civilians,” the ministry added.
“Nigeria stands firm in its support for the peaceful resolution of conflicts and reaffirms its longstanding commitment to regional and global peace and stability.”
The government assured that further updates on the evacuation process will be communicated through official channels.
The evacuation plans come in the wake of a significant escalation in hostilities, after Israel launched a major air assault on Friday targeting around 100 strategic sites across Iran, including military and nuclear facilities.
Among the casualties were Iran’s armed forces chief of staff, General Mohammad Bagheri, and top IRGC commander Hossein Salami, prompting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to declare the attacks a “declaration of war.”
Khamenei warned of a “bitter and painful” retaliation, while the Iranian military vowed that its response would have “no limits.”
The international community has since called for restraint, fearing a wider regional conflict.
