The Federal Government of Nigeria has indicated that evacuating Nigerians stranded in the Middle East due to escalating tensions involving Iran, United States, and Israel cannot be carried out immediately because of the prevailing volatile security conditions.
Officials confirmed that preparations are ongoing, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinating contingency plans alongside the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) to ensure safe evacuation once conditions permit.
The Spokesperson to NiDCOM, Abdurrahman Balogun stated that Nigerians residing in Iran, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have been seeking guidance, but airspace closures and ongoing military exchanges complicate immediate evacuation logistics.
Authorities have advised citizens to remain indoors, follow host-country safety directives, and stay in contact with Nigerian embassies until safe corridors are available.
The crisis intensified after coordinated U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian facilities in late February, followed by Iranian missile and drone retaliation targeting Israeli and U.S. installations, and strategic locations across the Gulf region.
The conflict has rapidly escalated, raising fears of a broader regional war. Israel has declared a nationwide state of emergency, restricted public gatherings, and mobilised reservists.
Military exchanges have also spread to Lebanon, causing displacement and humanitarian concerns.
Several countries, including the United States, have already evacuated their nationals via emergency flights and military operations.
Nigerian authorities are closely monitoring developments and emphasise that any evacuation will be contingent on security assessments and the reopening of safe travel routes.
For now, Nigerians in affected regions are urged to stay alert, maintain embassy contact, and follow official advisories while the Federal Government finalises contingency measures to ensure their safety.
