The Federal Government has ordered the emergency evacuation of Nigerian citizens from Israel and Iran as tensions escalate between the two Middle Eastern nations.
The evacuation directive follows an outbreak of hostilities, with Israel launching a large-scale airstrike campaign targeting more than 100 strategic locations across Iran since Friday, including military and nuclear sites.
The attack reportedly killed several top Iranian military officials and triggered immediate retaliatory strikes by Iran, resulting in multiple civilian and military casualties on both sides.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Tuesday night that preparations are underway to evacuate stranded Nigerians from both countries.
“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,” the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated.
The ministry urged Nigerian nationals in Israel and Iran to adhere to local security protocols and contact the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission immediately.
“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 statement added.
The Federal Government also commended its diplomatic missions in Tel Aviv and Tehran for their swift and dedicated efforts in reaching out to Nigerians during the crisis.
“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.”
Alongside the evacuation order, Nigeria reiterated its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all parties involved to embrace dialogue and protect 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.
“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 statement said.
