The Federal Government of Nigeria has begun evacuating Nigerians living in Iran as tensions in the Middle East continue to rise.
According to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, officials from the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran are escorting citizens who wish to leave Iran across the Armenian border to ensure their safety.
Nigerians Escorted to Armenia Border
The evacuation effort was confirmed by the NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who revealed that Nigerian embassy officials are coordinating the movement of citizens seeking to exit the country.
She explained that Nigerians willing to leave Iran are being guided safely to Armenia, where arrangements are being made to assist them further.
Dabiri-Erewa also reassured the public that no Nigerian in Iran has been reported harmed despite the growing tensions in the region.
Why the Evacuation Started
The evacuation comes after the conflict in the Middle East intensified following military strikes and retaliatory attacks involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, raising fears of a wider regional crisis.
Due to security concerns and restricted airspace in some areas, Nigerian authorities opted to move citizens by land first, escorting them safely to neighboring Armenia.
FG Monitoring the Situation
The Federal Government says it is closely monitoring developments in the region and remains committed to protecting Nigerians abroad. Officials at the border are on standby to assist evacuees and ensure they receive necessary support.
Earlier reports suggested that up to 1,000 Nigerians, many of them students, may need evacuation from Iran if the situation worsens.
What Happens Next
Authorities say further arrangements will be made to move the evacuees to safer locations once transportation and airspace conditions improve.
For now, the government has urged Nigerians in affected areas of the Middle East to remain calm and follow guidance from Nigerian diplomatic missions.
