The Federal Government has announced plans to urgently evacuate Nigerians stranded in Israel and Iran following a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict between both countries.
A statement issued on Tuesday night by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that arrangements are being finalised for the emergency evacuation.
According to the statement, Nigerian embassies in Tel Aviv and Tehran have begun reaching out to affected citizens and compiling lists for evacuation.
“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 statement read.
Nigerians currently living in the affected areas have been urged to stay calm, follow local safety measures, and register immediately with the nearest Nigerian embassy.
The Ministry praised the efforts of Nigerian missions in both countries, saying they are working “round the clock” to support citizens during this period.
In addition to evacuation plans, the Federal Government repeated its call for peace in the region. “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 statement added.
The move comes after a wave of deadly airstrikes launched by Israel on nearly 100 targets in Iran. The attacks reportedly killed top Iranian military leaders, including General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, and IRGC Commander Hossein Salami.
In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared the strikes an act of war and vowed a “bitter and painful” retaliation, raising fears of a full-scale regional conflict.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said further details about the evacuation – including travel timelines and logistics – will be shared soon through official government channels.
