The Federal Government has urged Nigerians residing in Iran and the Gulf region to take immediate safety measures in the wake of new military strikes in the area.
In a statement released on Saturday, February 28, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is “closely monitoring the evolving and volatile situation in the Middle East, specifically regarding the military action reportedly undertaken by Israel and the United States against targets in the Islamic Republic of Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions by Iran on targets in some Gulf countries.”
The advisory, signed by ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, urged Nigerians in affected areas to stay alert.
“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, as these could be potential flashpoints,” the statement read.
The ministry also called for restricted movement. “It is strongly recommended that Nigerians restrict non-essential movement and travel within the country until the security situation becomes clearer and stabilises. Avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations.”
Citizens were further directed to obey instructions from local authorities. “Citizens are strongly advised to strictly comply with all security and safety directives issued by the local authorities to ensure their safety. Remember that cooperation with local law enforcement is paramount for safety.”
The government said the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran and missions in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are on high alert to assist citizens and maintain communication.
It stressed that “the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remains the top priority of the Federal Government,” adding that it will continue to assess developments and issue updates where necessary.
The Nigerian government also appealed for calm, urging parties involved in the conflict “to de-escalate the crisis by returning to the negotiation table for the interests of global peace and coexistence.”
The advisory followed a wave of strikes on Saturday by the United States and Israel on targets in Iranian cities. Explosions were reported in Tehran, with plumes of smoke seen rising over parts of the capital.
The US President Donald Trump said Washington’s goal was “eliminating imminent threats” from Iran. In a video message, Trump stated, “The United States’ military began major combat operations in Iran,” adding, “We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally, again, obliterated. We’re going to annihilate their navy.”
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the action as a “preventive strike.”
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