War: Federal Govt Issues Security Advisory To Nigerians In Iran, Gulf States

The federal government has advised Nigerians living in Iran and other Gulf States on safety measures they should adhere to, following the launch of attack on the Islamic Republic of Iran by the United States and Israel and the retaliatory attacks by Iran yesterday.

This was disclosed in a statement issued yesterday by the spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, saying that the federal government was closely monitoring the evolving and volatile situation in the Middle East.

“Given the heightened state of tension and the potential for further escalations, the ministry is issuing the following advisory to all Nigerian citizens residing in or currently visiting Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries,” the statement said.

The ministry warned Nigerians to maintain constant vigilance, stressing that all Nigerians in Iran and affected Gulf countries were advised to remain extremely vigilant and conscious of their surroundings at all times and avoid areas known to be strategic, military or government installations, as these could be potential flashpoints.

The government also advised Nigerians not to embark on non-essential movement and travel within the countries until the security situation becomes clearer and stabilises.

Citizens were also advised to avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations and to strictly comply with all security and safety directives issued by the local authorities to ensure their safety adding that cooperation with local law enforcement is paramount for safety.

The government also advised Nigerian citizens to keep abreast with news and updates from reliable international and local news sources and be cautious of misinformation as well as rely on official channels for accurate and critical safety information.

Nigerians were also advised to establish communication with the relevant embassies, assuring that the Embassy in Tehran and affected neighbouring Gulf countries such as Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE and Saudi Arabia were on high alert to provide required consular assistance and facilitate easy communication.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to assess the situation and provide further updates as necessary. We wish to assure the general public that the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remains the top priority of the federal government.

“The government of Nigeria wishes to call on parties to the conflict to de-escalate the crisis by returning to the negotiation table for the interests of global peace and coexistence,” the statement added.