The Federal Government has begun the evacuation of Nigerian citizens who wish to leave Iran as tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East.
The evacuation exercise is being coordinated by officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, who are assisting Nigerians willing to depart the country and ensuring their safe movement out of the conflict area.
As part of the evacuation plan, the affected Nigerians are being escorted across the border into neighbouring Armenia, where further arrangements have been put in place to facilitate their safe passage and onward travel.
The development was confirmed by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who stated that the evacuation process was initiated as a precautionary measure to safeguard Nigerian nationals currently residing in Iran.
According to her, officials from the Nigerian diplomatic mission in Tehran have been working closely with Nigerian citizens in the country to coordinate their movement and provide necessary assistance during the evacuation.
She explained that the embassy has put in place logistical arrangements to escort Nigerians who have indicated their willingness to leave the country to the Armenian border, where they are being received and assisted by embassy personnel.
The evacuation exercise comes in response to growing concerns over the security situation in the Middle East following a series of military confrontations involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Recent developments in the region have heightened fears of a broader conflict after coordinated military strikes were reportedly carried out against Iranian targets, leading to retaliatory actions involving missile and drone attacks across parts of the region.
The exchange of hostilities has raised international concern about the safety of foreign nationals living in affected areas, prompting several countries to initiate precautionary evacuation plans for their citizens.
Despite the rising tension, the Nigerian government has reassured the public that there have been no reports of Nigerian citizens being harmed since the escalation of the conflict.
Officials say that the embassy remains actively engaged with members of the Nigerian community in Iran and is monitoring the situation closely to ensure their safety.
Embassy representatives have also been stationed at the border to receive Nigerians who arrive from different parts of Iran and assist them with the necessary procedures for onward movement.
Authorities say the evacuation process will continue for as long as necessary to accommodate Nigerians who wish to leave the country until the security situation improves.
The government has reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens abroad and ensuring that adequate support is provided to those affected by international crises or conflicts.
Officials have also advised Nigerians living in the region to remain in contact with the Nigerian Embassy and follow safety advisories while the situation continues to be closely monitored.
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