ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced that it is finalising emergency evacuation arrangements for citizens currently stranded in Israel and Iran, following a sharp escalation in hostilities between the two nations.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Nigeria’s embassies in Tel Aviv and Tehran have begun coordinating the identification and evacuation of affected nationals.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that following the escalation of the crisis between the State of Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Federal Government is finalising arrangements for the emergency evacuation of stranded Nigerians in both countries,” the statement read.
Nigerians living in the conflict zones have been advised to remain calm, follow local security advisories, and register immediately with the nearest Nigerian mission.
The ministry said its diplomatic posts are working “round the clock” to compile lists of citizens and disseminate critical information.
“The Ministry commends the efforts put in place by our Missions in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Tehran, Iran, for their dedication and commitment to reaching out to the Nigerian community in these difficult times,” Mr Ebienfa added.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the lives and welfare of Nigerians abroad, noting that collaboration with international partners and local authorities was ongoing to ensure a seamless evacuation process.
In addition to evacuation plans, Nigeria renewed its diplomatic appeal for restraint and dialogue.
“Nigeria reiterates its call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all parties involved to embrace dialogue, respect international humanitarian law and prioritise the protection of civilians,” the statement said.
The Ministry’s announcement follows an intensifying conflict that began with a large-scale Israeli air offensive on Friday, June 13, 2025, reportedly targeting nearly 100 locations across Iran.
Among the casualties were General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, and Hossein Salami, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, described the attacks as a “declaration of war” and vowed a “bitter and painful” retaliation.
Iranian military officials have pledged an unlimited response to the Israeli airstrikes.
