The National Identity Management Commission (NiDCOM)
has assured Nigerians living in the Middle East that the federal government is
closely monitoring escalating tensions following recent US and Israeli strikes
on Iran.
NiDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations and
Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, said in a statement on Tuesday that
authorities have received inquiries from Nigerians in Qatar, United
Arab Emirates, and Iran about possible evacuations.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working with all
relevant agencies for appropriate steps, while appealing to Nigerians in the
affected countries to follow travel advice and contact emergency numbers
provided,” the statement read. “Nigerians should rest assured that the federal
government is monitoring the situation and will take necessary steps to ensure
no Nigerian life is endangered.”
Earlier, the Federal Government advised Nigerians in
Iran and other Gulf countries to exercise extreme vigilance and avoid
strategic, military, or government areas, which could be potential flashpoints.
The warning comes amid regional hostilities following
the killing of Iran’s supreme leader by US–Israeli strikes. Iran retaliated
with missile and drone attacks targeting US and Israeli interests, including
strikes on the US embassy in Riyadh and military installations across
the Gulf.
AFP reporters in Riyadh observed smoke damage on the
US embassy, with heavy security and road closures around the diplomatic
quarter. Meanwhile, explosions and sirens were reported in Bahrain and Qatar,
and Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned of further escalation against the United
States and Israel.
The United Nations and the International Atomic Energy
Agency have expressed concern over civilian casualties and potential damage to
Iran’s Natanz nuclear enrichment facility.
The US State Department has urged Americans to depart
the region immediately due to “serious safety risks,” highlighting the ongoing
volatility.
The Nigerian government continues to urge citizens
abroad to remain vigilant, follow official advice, and report emergencies
promptly.
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