The Nigerian government has called on its nationals currently residing in Lebanon to return home, citing escalating violence in the region.
The Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) issued this recommendation in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which has led to escalating tensions and attacks in some parts of Lebanon.
In a statement, NiDCOM advised Nigerians to consider leaving the country while commercial flights continue to operate, given the uncertain security situation.
“In light of the Israeli government’s attacks on Hezbollah and other parts of Lebanon, we advise Nigerians living in Lebanon to take the opportunity to leave the country now, as flights are still available. ” said Media Director Abdulrahman Balogun. NiDCOM Public Affairs and Protocol Unit.
Despite the volatile situation, NiDCOM said that according to information from the Nigerian community in Lebanon, many Nigerians have already migrated from more volatile areas, especially the south of the country, and are now in a safer place. He pointed out that he lives in a place where “Although most Nigerians have reportedly moved to safer areas and are in relatively safe conditions, we continue to appeal to them to remain vigilant until a ceasefire is reached,” Balogun added.
NiDCOM also reassured the public that so far no Nigerians have been harmed in the conflict. “We are pleased that no Nigerian has experienced any injury or accident while the violence continues. We advise everyone to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during this period,” it said in a statement. .
The Nigerian government is closely monitoring the situation and has stressed that the safety and welfare of its people remains a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Nigerians residing in Lebanon are advised to maintain contact with the Nigerian Embassy in Beirut for further guidance on safety measures and evacuation options if necessary.
NiDCOM’s statement comes as part of broader efforts to ensure the safety of Nigerians abroad amidst rising geopolitical instability in the region.
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The recommendation follows growing concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon, which has been exacerbated by the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. Conflicts rooted in decades of territorial and political disputes have flared up again, creating instability in southern Lebanon and neighboring regions. The Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah has clashed with Israeli forces intermittently over the years, often drawing the country into broader Middle East conflicts.
The conflict has escalated in recent weeks, with rocket fire and airstrikes affecting civilian areas, raising fears of a wider regional war. Lebanon, already facing a severe economic crisis and political instability, faces further tensions as violence escalates. The situation has raised concerns for the safety of the estimated thousands of foreigners, including Nigerians, living and working in Lebanon, many of whom are vulnerable due to Lebanon’s continued economic difficulties.
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