Amid escalating tensions between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, the Federal Government of Nigeria has called on its citizens residing in Lebanon to leave the country immediately. The warning comes as Israeli troops intensify their attacks on Hezbollah strongholds and surrounding areas in Lebanon.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) issued a statement on Wednesday, October 2, urging Nigerians in Lebanon to evacuate while commercial flights are still available. The statement, signed by NIDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun, emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety amid the ongoing conflict.
NIDCOM also reassured Nigerians that while most Nigerian nationals in Lebanon have relocated from the southern part of the country and are relatively safe, they should remain cautious until a ceasefire is declared. “We hereby advise them to keep safe until the ceasefire is in place,” the statement read.
The commission further encouraged Nigerians to stay in contact with the Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon for guidance and assistance. It affirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains deeply concerned about the welfare and safety of all Nigerians abroad.
“Worried by the attacks on Hezbollah and other areas in Lebanon by the Israeli government, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) is hereby advising Nigerians resident in Lebanon to consider moving out of the country now that commercial flights are still in operation,” the statement urged.
This appeal underscores the gravity of the ongoing conflict and Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens in conflict zones.
