The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has assured that the Federal Government is closely monitoring the escalating crisis in the Middle East and is taking steps to protect Nigerian citizens in the region.
NiDCOM’s Director of Media, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said the government has been in contact with Nigerians in Qatar, UAE, and Iran, responding to inquiries about possible evacuations if the situation deteriorates.
The commissions are coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant agencies to ensure timely action.
“ Nigerians in affected countries should be reassured that the federal government is monitoring the situation and will take necessary steps to ensure no Nigerian life is endangered,” the statement read.
Citizens were also urged to follow travel advisories and use emergency contact numbers provided by the ministry.
The warning comes in the wake of early-morning strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iranian targets, which prompted retaliatory attacks by Iran across some Gulf states.
Drones struck the U.S. embassy in Riyadh, while explosions and sirens were reported in capitals including Bahrain and Qatar.
Iranian authorities also announced strikes on Israeli targets and the U.S. air base at Al-Udeid, Qatar, though the latter reported having thwarted attacks on its airport.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued stern warnings, declaring that “the gates of hell will open more and more… upon the United States and Israel.”
The escalating conflict has drawn global attention.
The United Nations expressed concern over civilian casualties, while the UN nuclear watchdog indicated possible recent damage at Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility.
U.S. urged citizens to leave the region immediately, citing “serious safety risks.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has appealed for calm and de-escalation, emphasizing that the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority.
The situation remains fluid as governments continue monitoring developments and coordinating the protection of foreign nationals in affected Middle East countries.
