The Federal Government has issued an urgent security advisory to Nigerians residing in Iran and parts of the Gulf region following fresh military strikes involving Israel, the United States and the Iran.
In a statement released on Saturday, February 28, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is closely monitoring what it described as an “evolving and volatile situation” in the Middle East. The ministry referenced military actions reportedly carried out by Israel and the United States against targets in Iran, as well as retaliatory strikes by Iran on locations in some Gulf countries.
The advisory, signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, urged Nigerians in affected areas to exercise heightened caution.
“All Nigerians in Iran and affected Gulf countries are advised to remain extremely vigilant and conscious of their surroundings at all times. Avoid areas known to be strategic, military, or government installations, as these could be potential flashpoints,” the statement read.
The government further recommended that citizens limit movement until the security climate stabilises.
“It is strongly recommended that Nigerians restrict non-essential movement and travel within the country until the security situation becomes clearer and stabilises. Avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations,” the ministry added.
Nigerians abroad were also directed to comply strictly with security directives issued by host authorities, stressing that cooperation with local law enforcement agencies is critical for personal safety.
The Federal Government disclosed that the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, alongside missions in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, has been placed on high alert to provide necessary assistance and maintain communication with citizens.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians overseas, the government stated that the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad remains its top priority and assured that it will continue to assess developments and provide updates as required.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the United States and Israel launched a wave of strikes on Saturday targeting sites in Iranian cities. Explosions were reported in Tehran, with plumes of smoke seen rising over parts of the capital.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington’s objective was to eliminate what he described as “imminent threats” from Iran. In a video message, Trump announced that the U.S. military had begun major combat operations in Iran, vowing to destroy the country’s missile capabilities and naval assets.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz characterised the operation as a “preventive strike.”
The Nigerian government also appealed to all parties involved to de-escalate tensions and return to dialogue in the interest of global peace and coexistence.
