NIDCOM Confirms Evacuation Plans for Nigerians in Middle East Amid Iran-US Tensions
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has officially rejected circulating online reports claiming the agency received no distress calls from Nigerians affected by the escalating conflict in the Middle East. In a detailed clarification, the commission confirmed it has indeed received enquiries from Nigerian citizens in several Gulf countries regarding potential evacuation plans.
Commission Refutes Inaccurate Claims
In an official statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols at NIDCOM, the commission explicitly denied issuing any statement suggesting there were no distress calls from stranded Nigerians. The notice stated clearly: "The attention of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has been drawn to a statement credited to the Commission Spokesman ... that there are no distress calls from Nigerians stranded in the Middle East due to the ongoing crisis in the region. I never issued such a statement."
Enquiries from Multiple Countries
NIDCOM confirmed receiving specific enquiries from Nigerian citizens residing in:
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Iran
These citizens have expressed concerns about their safety and sought information about possible evacuation plans should the regional security situation deteriorate further due to the ongoing tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Government Coordination Efforts
The commission emphasized that the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively collaborating with relevant agencies to consider necessary steps if evacuation becomes required. NIDCOM urged all Nigerians in affected countries to:
- Follow official travel advisories closely
- Use designated emergency contact numbers for assistance
- Remain calm while monitoring the situation
Background of Regional Tensions
The clarification comes against the backdrop of rising tensions that have disrupted airspace and led to flight cancellations across parts of the Middle East. In recent days, several governments, including Nigeria's, have issued travel warnings and called on citizens in the region to stay safe and be prepared for potential changes in the security landscape.
Government Assurance to Citizens
NIDCOM appealed to Nigerian citizens abroad to remain calm while assuring them that the federal government is monitoring the situation closely. The commission emphasized that no Nigerian life would be endangered without appropriate action being taken if distress calls were received and conditions permitted an organized evacuation. The government maintains readiness to implement safety measures and possible evacuation plans if the situation necessitates such intervention.
In summary, NIDCOM has clarified that contrary to erroneous reports, it has received distress enquiries from Nigerians in several Middle Eastern countries and is coordinating with other government bodies to ensure citizen safety and prepare evacuation plans if necessary.
