The Nigerian Federal Government has stated that it cannot proceed with the evacuation of its citizens stuck in parts of the Middle East amidst the escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. The immediate evacuation is hindered by the current security risks in the region.
Officials have indicated that while evacuation preparations are in progress, immediate operations are challenging due to the unstable security environment and the significant disruptions to airspace.
A representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that contingency plans are being coordinated with pertinent agencies, including the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), to ensure safe evacuation of Nigerians as soon as conditions permit.
Abdurrahman Balogun, a spokesperson for NiDCOM, confirmed that inquiries have been received from Nigerians living in countries like Iran, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates about potential evacuation plans.
However, he noted that the closure of airspace in several areas of the Middle East alongside ongoing military actions has complicated the logistics for evacuation.
Nigerians residing in affected locations have been urged to remain indoors, heed safety warnings from local authorities, and keep in regular contact with Nigerian embassies until safe evacuation routes open up.
Officials emphasized the government's commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad and assured that evacuation efforts would commence once security conditions improve and transportation channels reopen.
The conflict escalated at the end of February following coordinated military actions by the United States and Israel aimed at specific targets within Iran.
In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone strikes against Israeli territories and U.S. military bases across the Gulf region, which includes Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.
This confrontation has quickly escalated, causing concerns about a wider regional war as numerous Middle Eastern nations report airspace closures, missile interceptions, and heightened security protocols.
Israel has declared a nationwide state of emergency, closing schools, limiting public gatherings, and mobilizing thousands of reserve personnel amid fears of civilian-targeted attacks.
Military conflicts have extended to Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes and counterattacks from regional militant groups have led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands, raising serious humanitarian concerns.
As tensions mount, several nations are beginning to evacuate their citizens from the region.
The United States has reportedly evacuated thousands of its nationals through emergency charter flights and coordinated military actions, while other countries activate their emergency response plans to assist their stranded citizens.
Nigerian authorities have stated they are closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with diplomatic missions across the Middle East.
Officials reiterated that any evacuation will depend on security evaluations and the re-establishment of secure travel pathways.
Currently, Nigerians in the impacted countries are advised to stay calm, vigilant, and in touch with Nigerian embassies for updates and assistance.
Government sources have stressed the priority of ensuring the safety of Nigerian citizens as they continue to evaluate the evolving crisis and prepare for appropriate emergency measures.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
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