The Federal Government has issued a security advisory to Nigerians residing in the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries following escalating military actions in the region.
In a press release on Saturday signed by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government said it is “closely monitoring the evolving and volatile situation in the Middle East, specifically regarding the military action reportedly undertaken by Israel and the United States against targets in the Islamic Republic of Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions by Iran on targets in some Gulf countries.”
Given the heightened tensions, the ministry advised Nigerians in the affected areas to exercise extreme caution.
“All Nigerians in Iran and affected Gulf countries are advised to remain extremely vigilant and conscious of their surroundings at all times. Avoid areas known to be strategic, military, or government installations, as these could be potential flashpoints,” the statement read.
It further urged citizens to restrict movement, noting, “It is strongly recommended that Nigerians restrict non-essential movement and travel within the country until the security situation becomes clearer and stabilises. Avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations.”
The government also directed Nigerians to comply with local authorities.
“Citizens are strongly advised to strictly comply with all security and safety directives issued by the local authorities to ensure their safety. Remember that cooperation with local law enforcement is paramount for safety.”
On communication, the ministry stated that the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran and missions in neighbouring Gulf countries, including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, “are on high alert to provide required consular assistance and facilitate easy communication.”
The ministry assured that “the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remains the top priority of the Federal Government,” adding that it will continue to assess the situation and provide further updates as necessary.
The government also called on parties involved in the conflict “to de-escalate the crisis by returning to the negotiation table for the interests of global peace and coexistence.”
The advisory follows a wave of strikes on Saturday by the United States and Israel against targets in Iranian cities, triggering explosions and columns of smoke in the capital, Tehran.
US President Donald Trump said Washington’s goal was “eliminating imminent threats” from Iran, while Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the action as a “preventive strike.” In a video message, Trump stated, “The United States’ military began major combat operations in Iran,” adding, “We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally, again, obliterated. We’re going to annihilate their navy.”
The African Union has expressed deep concern over the escalation, warning of threats to global stability, while the European Union also reacted. President of the European Council, António Costa, said, “The developments in Iran are greatly concerning. We remain in close contact with our partners in the region.”
Read the full article here
