By Babs Oyetoro
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has said the Federal Government is reassessing its contingency measures to safeguard Nigerians living in the Middle East following heightened tensions across the region.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the commission disclosed that authorities are closely monitoring developments and coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of citizens abroad.
NiDCOM noted that Nigerian officials have received enquiries “from a few Nigerians in Qatar, UAE, and Iran enquiring about preparations for evacuations when it becomes necessary.”
“The fact of the matter is that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working with all relevant agencies for appropriate steps, while appealing to Nigerians in the affected countries to follow the travel advice as issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and contact the emergency numbers provided by the ministry.
“Nigerians in affected countries should be assured that the federal government is monitoring the situation and will take necessary steps to ensure no Nigerian life is endangered,” the statement read in part.
Earlier, the Federal Government had urged Nigerians residing in the Middle East, particularly in Iran, to heighten their security awareness amid the escalating hostilities.
“All Nigerians in Iran and affected Gulf countries are advised to remain extremely vigilant and conscious of their surroundings at all times,” a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in part.
“Avoid areas known to be strategic, military, or government installations, as these could be potential flashpoints.
“We wish to assure the general public that the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remains the top priority of the Federal Government,” the ministry added, while calling on parties involved in the conflict to de-escalate tensions.
The advisory followed renewed hostilities after the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iran in the early hours of Saturday. Iranian authorities later responded with retaliatory actions, including strikes in parts of the Gulf region.
