The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has alerted air travellers to disruptions affecting flights between Nigeria and parts of the Middle East following fresh military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.
In a public notice released on Saturday through its official communication channels, FAAN said the closure of airspace in some Middle Eastern countries had begun to impact flight operations to and from Nigerian airports.
“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria wishes to notify passengers that ongoing airspace restrictions in parts of the Middle East are currently disrupting flight operations,” the statement read.
The authority disclosed that several outbound and inbound services to destinations in the region had either been delayed or cancelled. Among the airlines affected are Emirates and Qatar Airways.
“As a result of the situation, some flights to Middle East destinations have been cancelled or rescheduled,” FAAN stated, urging affected passengers to liaise directly with their respective airlines for the latest updates.
“Passengers are strongly advised to contact their airlines for current information regarding flight status, rebooking arrangements, and other necessary guidance,” the agency added.
FAAN assured travellers that it is working closely with aviation stakeholders to monitor developments and promised to provide updates as the situation evolves.
“We regret the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the travelling public,” the authority said.
The disruption follows coordinated strikes reportedly carried out by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets, which led to explosions in parts of Tehran. In response to escalating hostilities, countries including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates announced partial or complete airspace closures.
Several global carriers — including Air France, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines and Air India — have also suspended or adjusted operations across parts of the region.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a security advisory to Nigerians residing in Iran and neighbouring Gulf states, citing rising tensions.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the ministry said it was “closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East following reported military actions by Israel and the United States against targets in the Islamic Republic of Iran and the subsequent retaliatory measures.”
The government advised Nigerians in affected countries to remain cautious, avoid sensitive or military locations, limit unnecessary travel, and comply with instructions from local authorities.
It also noted that Nigeria’s diplomatic missions in Tehran, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia had been placed on alert to provide consular support where necessary.
Reiterating its commitment to citizens abroad, the Federal Government said the protection of Nigerians remains a priority and called on all parties involved to pursue de-escalation in the interest of regional stability and global peace.
