The Federal Government has begun arrangements to evacuate Nigerians stranded in parts of the Middle East following the worsening security situation triggered by recent military escalations in the region.
Authorities said efforts are currently focused on completing administrative procedures and securing funds to facilitate the evacuation of affected citizens.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed that the process was underway, noting that government agencies were working to ensure a safe and coordinated evacuation.
“We are finalising administrative processes and making funds available to commence evacuation,” Ebienfa said.
The move comes amid heightened tensions linked to missile and drone attacks attributed to Iran, as well as earlier coordinated strikes involving the United States and Israel.
The developments have disrupted travel and raised safety concerns across several countries, including Iran, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar.
Officials said priority is being given to Nigerians in high-risk areas, particularly those in Iran and Israel, where evacuation logistics remain complicated.
According to the ministry, moving Nigerians out of Iran poses significant challenges, including transporting students from different cities to border points and meeting entry requirements of neighbouring countries.
Despite the difficulties, the government is exploring multiple evacuation options, including the possible deployment of Nigerian Air Force aircraft, depending on the evolving security conditions.
Meanwhile, some progress has been recorded with Nigerians stranded in transit locations. Ebienfa disclosed that flight operations from Qatar have begun to ease the situation.
“Qatar Airways has resumed flights to Nigeria. In the coming days, those affected by transit disruptions should be able to return home,” he said.
He added that alternative routes through cities such as Cairo and Nairobi have also been used to return some Nigerians.
In the United Arab Emirates, authorities reported multiple interceptions of missiles and drones in recent days, with casualties recorded among residents and foreign nationals, including Nigerians. However, the ministry confirmed that a Nigerian injured in the attacks has since been treated and discharged.
The Iranian government has also expressed readiness to support evacuation efforts. Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Gholamreza Raja, said his country is willing to cooperate with Nigerian authorities to ensure the safe departure of those who wish to leave.
“We are prepared to assist in facilitating the departure of Nigerian nationals,” Raja stated.
He noted that land borders remain open and are currently being used by foreign nationals for movement out of Iran.
“These routes are considered safe and accessible for those intending to leave,” he added.
The envoy further revealed that several hundred Nigerians reside in Iran, many of whom are students enrolled in academic programmes, while others are engaged in small-scale businesses.
At the same time, the crisis has significantly disrupted international travel. Emirates Airline has suspended flights to and from Dubai, advising passengers to stay away from the airport until further notice.
The airline said the suspension was in line with directives from aviation authorities amid ongoing security concerns.
“Passengers are advised not to proceed to the airport at this time. Safety remains our top priority,” the airline said in a statement.
