The Federal Government has released a security advisory for Nigerians living in the Middle East, particularly in the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries, urging them to remain vigilant amid rising military tensions across the region.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officials confirmed they are closely monitoring the situation following reported military strikes by Israel and the United States on targets within Iran, as well as retaliatory developments affecting parts of the Gulf.
The government advised Nigerians in the affected areas to exercise caution and avoid strategic or sensitive locations such as military bases and government facilities, which could become flashpoints if hostilities escalate further.
Citizens were also encouraged to limit non-essential travel and avoid public gatherings or protests until the security climate improves. Authorities stressed the importance of strictly adhering to instructions issued by local security agencies, noting that cooperation with host governments is vital for personal safety.
Nigerian diplomatic missions have been placed on heightened alert, including the Embassy in Tehran and consular offices in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. These missions are expected to provide necessary support to Nigerians and maintain clear communication as events continue to unfold. The government reaffirmed that safeguarding citizens abroad remains a top priority and pledged to provide further updates as required.
Additionally, Nigeria appealed to all parties involved in the conflict to ease tensions and return to diplomatic engagement, highlighting dialogue as essential for global peace and stability. The advisory follows reports of airstrikes on locations in Iranian cities, with explosions and smoke reportedly seen in parts of the capital.
U.S. officials described the operations as efforts to neutralise perceived security threats, while Israeli authorities characterised the strikes as preventive actions.
President Donald Trump stated that the United States aimed to eliminate what he termed imminent dangers and vowed to dismantle missile infrastructure associated with Iran’s defence network. Israeli officials similarly maintained that the actions were defensive.
International responses have remained cautious. The African Union expressed concern over the potential impact on regional and global stability, urging restraint from all sides.
The European Union also reacted, with European Council President António Costa describing developments in Iran as troubling and confirming that European leaders were in communication with partners across the region.
In closing, the Federal Government reiterated its call for a peaceful resolution and emphasised the importance of diplomacy in addressing international security challenges.
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