The Federal Government has issued a travel and safety advisory to Nigerians residing in Iran and several Gulf countries, urging heightened vigilance amid escalating military tensions in the region.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was closely monitoring developments following reported air operations by Israel and the United States against targets in Iran, as well as retaliatory actions that have affected parts of the Gulf.
The government advised Nigerians in the affected countries to exercise extreme caution, particularly around strategic facilities such as military bases, government buildings and other sensitive locations that could become flashpoints in the unfolding crisis.
Citizens were also encouraged to minimise non-essential travel and steer clear of large gatherings or demonstrations until tensions ease.
Diplomatic missions have been placed on alert, including the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran and consular offices across neighbouring Gulf states such as Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
The ministry said these missions stand ready to provide assistance and maintain communication with Nigerian nationals where necessary.
Authorities further urged citizens to comply strictly with directives issued by local security agencies, stressing that cooperation with host governments is essential to ensuring personal safety during periods of instability.
The advisory followed reports of explosions and rising smoke in parts of Tehran and other Iranian cities, as military activity intensifies.
U.S. officials have described their operations as aimed at neutralising security threats, while Israeli authorities have characterised their actions as preventive.
Donald Trump said Washington’s objective was to dismantle missile infrastructure linked to Iran’s defence capabilities and counter what he termed imminent dangers.
Israeli officials similarly framed their strikes as defensive measures.
International reactions have been measured but cautious.
The African Union expressed concern about the implications of the escalation for regional and global stability, calling on all parties to show restraint.
The European Union also voiced unease, with European Council President António Costa noting that developments were troubling and that consultations with regional partners were ongoing.
Reiterating its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad, the Federal Government said it would continue to track the situation closely and provide timely updates.
It also appealed to the parties involved to de-escalate hostilities and prioritise diplomatic engagement in the interest of international peace and security.
