FG Issues Security Advisory to Nigerians in Iran, Gulf States Over Rising Tensions

The Federal Government has issued a security advisory to Nigerians living in the Middle East, particularly in Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries, urging heightened vigilance amid escalating military tensions in the region.

In a statement released on Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, authorities said they were closely monitoring developments following reported military operations by Israel and the United States against targets in Iran, as well as retaliatory actions affecting parts of the Gulf.

The government advised Nigerian citizens in affected areas to remain cautious and avoid strategic or sensitive locations, including military installations and government facilities, which could become targets of further hostilities.

Nigerians were also encouraged to limit non-essential travel and stay away from public gatherings or demonstrations until the security situation improves. The statement emphasised the importance of complying strictly with instructions from local security agencies, noting that cooperation with authorities is vital for personal safety.

Diplomatic missions have been placed on alert, including the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran and consular offices across Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. These missions are expected to provide assistance to citizens and maintain effective communication as events unfold. The government reiterated that the protection of Nigerians abroad remains a top priority and pledged to continue assessing the evolving situation while providing updates when necessary.

The advisory followed reports of airstrikes on Iranian cities, with explosions and plumes of smoke seen rising in parts of the capital. US officials described the strikes as efforts to neutralise security threats, while Israeli authorities characterised them as preventive measures.

US President Donald Trump said the United States aimed to eliminate what he described as imminent dangers and vowed to dismantle missile infrastructure linked to Iran’s defence capabilities. Israeli officials similarly framed the operations as defensive.

International reaction has remained cautious. The African Union expressed concern about the potential consequences for regional and global stability, urging restraint from all parties.

The European Union also weighed in, with European Council President António Costa describing the developments as troubling and confirming that European leaders were maintaining close contact with regional partners.

Concluding its statement, the Federal Government renewed its call for de-escalation and stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the crisis peacefully.