Naija News • 5h ago
FG activates diplomatic channels to safeguard Nigerians amid Gulf tensions
**FG Activates Emergency Plans to Safeguard Nigerians in the Gulf Region**
In the wake of escalating tensions in the Gulf region, particularly between the United States, Israel, and Iran, the Nigerian government has activated its diplomatic and consular alert mechanisms to protect its citizens living and working in the affected countries. According to Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Head of the Crisis Monitoring and Public Communications Division, this move is part of the government's efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians in the region.
The government's foreign policy is built on dialogue, peaceful conflict resolution, and respect for international law. Ebienfa noted that Nigeria has been urging all parties involved to exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic talks, as stipulated in the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Conventions.
To prepare for any eventuality, Nigerian embassies in key countries in the Gulf, such as Iran, Israel, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, have been placed on high alert to monitor developments and provide assistance to Nigerians in need. The government has also been keeping a close eye on the situation, and so far, there have been no confirmed reports of Nigerian casualties.
With thousands of Nigerians working in various sectors, including construction, healthcare, aviation, and oil and gas, in the Gulf region, the government is taking proactive measures to ensure their safety. An inter-ministerial meeting was held recently to discuss evacuation plans, particularly for Nigerians in Iran, where nearly 1,000 nationals are currently based, mainly as students. The government is also in talks with the Republic of Armenia to explore possible evacuation routes for affected Nigerians.
To keep Nigerians in the region informed, the Ministry is maintaining updated records of citizens living abroad, strengthening communication channels with diaspora communities, and issuing timely security advisories. The government has also put in place a crisis response structure to coordinate emergency consular services during international emergencies.
As the situation in the Gulf region remains tense, the Nigerian government is taking all necessary steps to safeguard its citizens and ensure their safety.