FG Begins Evacuation of Nigerians in Iran Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

The Federal Government (FG) of Nigeria has commenced the evacuation of Nigerian citizens residing in Iran as tensions escalate across parts of the Middle East. The operation is being coordinated through the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, with officials escorting Nigerians who wish to leave the country to safety through the Armenia border. Authorities say the measure is a precautionary step aimed at safeguarding citizens amid the growing regional crisis.

Officials have assured that no Nigerian has been directly affected by the hostilities so far. However, the federal government says it is closely monitoring developments and has moved swiftly to ensure that Nigerians who feel unsafe have the opportunity to exit the country under official supervision.

FG To Plan Coordinated Evacuation Through Armenia Border

The evacuation exercise is being supervised by officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, who are guiding Nigerians willing to leave Iran across the country’s border into Armenia. The process is designed to ensure a secure passage for evacuees while avoiding areas that could be affected by ongoing hostilities in the region.

Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, confirmed the development, noting that embassy officials are stationed at the border to receive evacuees and assist them with onward arrangements. According to her, the evacuation is strictly voluntary and targeted at Nigerians who have expressed a desire to leave the country for safety reasons.

Authorities also indicated that the evacuation process is being conducted in collaboration with Armenian authorities, reflecting diplomatic coordination aimed at facilitating the safe movement of foreign nationals during emergencies.

FG: Escalating Regional Crisis Raises Safety Concerns

The evacuation effort comes against the backdrop of growing tensions in the Middle East following military strikes that have heightened fears of a broader conflict in the region. FG was told that the strikes reportedly triggered retaliatory missile and drone attacks, increasing uncertainty and raising security concerns for foreign nationals living in affected countries.

Although Nigerian officials maintain that citizens in Iran have not been directly harmed by the crisis, the federal government says it considers it necessary to act proactively to protect Nigerians abroad. The evacuation forms part of Nigeria’s broader diplomatic and humanitarian response to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens wherever they reside.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also reiterated Nigeria’s longstanding support for dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts, urging parties involved in the crisis to prioritise diplomacy and the protection of civilians.