The Federal Government has issued a security advisory to Nigerians living in the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries following rising military tensions in the region.
In a statement released on Saturday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the government is “closely monitoring the evolving and volatile situation in the Middle East, particularly the reported military action undertaken by Israel and the United States against targets in Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions by Iran in some Gulf countries.”
Given the escalation, the ministry urged Nigerians in the region to prioritise safety.
“All Nigerians in Iran and affected Gulf countries are advised to remain extremely vigilant and conscious of their surroundings at all times.
Avoid areas known to be strategic, military or government installations,” the advisory read.
Citizens were also encouraged to limit movement.
“It is strongly recommended that Nigerians restrict non-essential movement until the security situation becomes clearer. Avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations,” the ministry added.
The government further advised strict compliance with local authorities, noting that “cooperation with security agencies is essential for personal safety.”
According to the statement, the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran and missions in Gulf states including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia remain on high alert to provide consular assistance.
The ministry reaffirmed that the “safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remains the top priority of the Federal Government,” adding that updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
The advisory follows a series of strikes on Saturday by the United States and Israel against locations in Iran, resulting in explosions in Tehran.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington’s aim was “eliminating imminent threats,” while Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz described the operation as a “preventive strike.”
In a video message, Trump asserted, “We are going to destroy their missiles… We’re going to annihilate their navy.”
International bodies also reacted.
The African Union warned that the escalation poses risks to global stability, while the President of the European Council, António Costa, said, “The developments in Iran are greatly concerning.
We remain in close contact with our partners in the region.
