By Abiola Olawale
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced immediate plans to evacuate Nigerians stranded in Israel and Iran amid the escalating military conflict between the two nations.
The directive, issued late Tuesday, comes in response to a deadly air campaign and retaliatory strikes that have plunged the Middle East region into chaos.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, confirmed that Nigerian embassies in Tel Aviv and Tehran are working tirelessly to contact affected nationals and coordinate logistics for a swift and secure evacuation.
The statement reads in part: “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 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.”
The New Diplomat reports that the conflict, which intensified following Israel’s airstrikes on nearly 100 targets across Iran last Friday, has led to devastating consequences.
Reports indicate nearly 600 deaths in Iran, while Israel has recorded 24 civilian casualties and the evacuation of nearly 3,000 residents due to Iranian missile strikes.
The closure of airspace across the Middle East has further complicated evacuation efforts, leaving foreign nationals, including Nigerians, scrambling to find safe passage.
