By Peter Omopo
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to diplomacy and the protection of Nigerians abroad following rising tensions in the Gulf region linked to the confrontation involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Head of the Crisis Monitoring and Public Communications Division, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, disclosed this while speaking on a current affairs programme, stating that Nigeria’s response was prompted by the rapid escalation of hostilities in the region and the potential spillover effects.
Ebienfa said the government has activated diplomatic channels and consular alert mechanisms to ensure the safety of Nigerians living in affected countries.
He noted that Nigeria’s foreign policy remains anchored on dialogue, peaceful resolution of conflicts and respect for international law, urging all parties involved in the crisis to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic engagement in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Conventions.
According to him, Nigerian embassies across the region, including those in Tehran, Tel Aviv, Qatar, Beirut, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, have been placed on high alert to monitor developments and provide support to Nigerian nationals.
He explained that thousands of Nigerians are currently working in the Gulf region in sectors such as construction, healthcare, aviation, oil and gas and domestic services.
Ebienfa added that there have been no confirmed reports of Nigerians directly affected by the tensions so far, though the situation remains under close monitoring.
He disclosed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held an inter-ministerial meeting on Friday with relevant stakeholders to develop an evacuation plan, particularly for Nigerians in Iran who are considered the most vulnerable.
According to him, nearly 1,000 Nigerians, most of them students, are currently in Iran, and discussions are ongoing with the Republic of Armenia to facilitate possible evacuation if necessary.
He said the ministry is also working through its embassies and consulates to maintain updated records of Nigerians living in the region, strengthen communication with diaspora communities and issue timely security advisories.
Ebienfa added that Nigeria operates a crisis response structure within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate emergency consular services during international crises, including evacuation planning and collaboration with host governments and international agencies.
The ministry has advised Nigerians residing in the Gulf region to remain vigilant, comply with security advisories from local authorities, maintain regular contact with Nigerian embassies and ensure their travel and identity documents remain valid.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians abroad while supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Gulf region.
