The Nigerian Government has issued a statement to debunk reports circulating on social media that it has abandoned Nigerians that may have been trapped in Iran following the lingering military confrontation with Israel.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, in the statement issued by the Ministry’s spokesman, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, on Saturday, clarified the situation and asked the public to ignore the reports as they were false, misleading and unfounded.
The reports suggested that the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran had ceased operations and abandoned citizens due to the ongoing military offensives between Iran and Israel.
“The Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran remains operational and fully committed to the welfare and safety of all Nigerian nationals in Iran,” Tuggar affirmed.
He explained, however, that due to ongoing security concerns and consistent bombings in Tehran, normal work schedules had been disrupted, with embassy staff currently working remotely.
“In response to these developments, the Embassy is actively engaging with the Government of Armenia to secure access for the evacuation of Nigerians via Yerevan,” the minister stated.
Tuggar urged Nigerians in Iran requiring assistance to contact the Embassy through the following emergency numbers and emails: Mr Esson Anzaku: +989393216872; Mr Abutalib: +989024199018, +989393216872. Emails: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
He also advised Nigerians to stay in contact with the designated community coordinators in the three previously arranged locations and to download the Iranian local messaging app Eitaa and join the Nigerian group for real-time updates.
“The ministry remains vigilant in monitoring the situation and will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard the interests of Nigerians worldwide,” the statement added
Meanwhile, the Ministry also said collaboration between Nigeria and the Government of the Republic of Armenia to facilitate the safe evacuation of Nigerian citizens from the Islamic Republic of Iran via Yerevan, has reached an advanced stage.
The assurance was given during a meeting between the Charge d’ Affaires of the Embassy of Nigeria in Iran, Abdulrasheed Omar Lawal, PhD and the Acting Director, Acting Director Middle East and Africa in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Levon Petrosyan where the Head of the Nigerian Embassy in Iran requested for safe passage for Nigerians stranded in Iran.
“This compassionate gesture by Armenia underscores the importance of international solidarity and humanitarian cooperation in times of crisis. Nigeria, therefore, deeply appreciates the willingness of Armenia to assist in ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens caught in the distressing situation.
“Nigeria values the strong diplomatic relations with Armenia and looks forward to further strengthening bilateral ties in the spirit of mutual respect and shared humanity.
“The Nigerian government, through its relevant agencies, is working closely with Armenian authorities and other international partners to coordinate a seamless evacuation process,” the statement said.
