Middle East Conflict: FG Begins Evacuation of Nigerians from Iran

Middle East Conflict: FG Begins Evacuation of Nigerians from Iran

The Federal Government of Nigeria has begun evacuating Nigerian citizens from Iran as the Middle East conflict intensifies, guiding those who choose to leave safely across the Armenian border. The move comes after US–Israeli military strikes on February 28, which sparked retaliatory attacks and heightened fears of a wider regional war affecting foreign nationals.

Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), confirmed the evacuation on her X account, stating that officials from the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran are coordinating the operation. She emphasized that no Nigerian in Iran has been directly affected by the conflict and that embassy personnel remain stationed at the border to assist evacuees.

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“Willing Nigerians are being escorted across the Armenian border by embassy officials for safe passage. No Nigerian has been affected by the war as officials remain to receive all who want to leave,” Dabiri-Erewa said.

The evacuation initiative prioritizes Nigerians in Iran, including students and residents who may face disruptions due to airspace closures and regional insecurity. Overland evacuation routes through neighboring Armenia were identified as the safest option amid escalating military activity.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also activated emergency contact systems, urging Nigerians in conflict-affected countries — including Iran, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE — to maintain regular communication with their nearest Nigerian diplomatic missions. Authorities are coordinating with foreign partners to ensure the safe and orderly movement of citizens.

Officials stress that the evacuation underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad, especially as the conflict shows no signs of immediate de-escalation. Further plans are being reviewed to accommodate additional evacuees if the situation worsens.

Middle East Conflict: FG Begins Evacuation of Nigerians from Iran