FG Launches Evacuation Of Nigerians From Middle-East Crisis

The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed that it is finalising administrative arrangements and releasing funds to evacuate citizens affected by the escalating crisis in parts of the Middle East. According to Ireporter Online, the move comes amid heightened regional tensions following missile and drone strikes linked to Iran, which have raised security concerns across several Gulf countries.

The conflict intensified after coordinated military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated that the government is completing necessary administrative processes and funding allocations before commencing the evacuation of Nigerians stranded in countries including Iran, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Qatar.

Officials noted that evacuating Nigerians from Iran presents significant logistical challenges, involving the transport of students from various universities to the Armenian border while adhering to entry conditions set by Armenia. The government is also considering using aircraft from the Nigerian Air Force, although the volatile security situation has complicated flight operations.

Ebienfa highlighted that many Nigerians stranded in Qatar were transit passengers affected by disrupted flights. He confirmed that Qatar Airways had resumed operations, with flights such as the recent service from Doha to Lagos, and that most stranded transit passengers would return to Nigeria in the coming days. Some Nigerians had already departed through flights to Cairo and Nairobi.

The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed that its air defence systems intercepted multiple missiles and drones launched from Iran on March 14. Authorities reported six deaths and over 140 injuries among residents and foreign workers from several countries, including Nigeria. Ebienfa said that the Nigerian injured in the attacks has since received treatment and been discharged.

The Iranian government has pledged support to assist Nigerian authorities in safely evacuating citizens wishing to leave. Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Gholamreza Raja, stated that the Islamic Republic is ready to cooperate and that several hundred Nigerians currently reside in Iran, including students on scholarship programmes and individuals engaged in small-scale commerce.

Meanwhile, Emirates Airline announced a temporary suspension of flights to and from Dubai International Airport following guidance from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. The airline advised passengers not to travel to the airport amid security concerns, disrupting travel for thousands, including many Nigerians relying on Dubai as a transit hub. The suspension has affected conferences, business meetings, tourism, and ticket refunds for stranded passengers.