The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a security advisory urging Nigerians residing in Iran and several Gulf countries to exercise heightened caution following the surge in military activity in the Middle East.
In a statement released on Saturday, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the government is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving and volatile security situation in the region.
The advisory comes after reported military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets and subsequent retaliatory actions affecting some Gulf countries.
Safety Advisory for Nigerians Abroad
Nigerians living in Iran and neighbouring Gulf states were urged to remain extremely vigilant and aware of their surroundings.
The ministry advised citizens to avoid locations considered strategic or sensitive, including military, government, or security installations, which could become potential flashpoints.
Citizens were also encouraged to restrict non-essential movement and avoid large gatherings, protests, or public demonstrations until the security situation stabilises.
“Nigerians are strongly advised to comply with all safety and security directives issued by local authorities, as cooperation with law enforcement is essential for personal safety,” the statement said.
The government further confirmed that Nigerian diplomatic missions across the region — including in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia — are on high alert to provide consular support and facilitate communication with Nigerian nationals.
The Nigerian Embassy in Tehran has also been placed on heightened readiness to assist citizens if the security situation deteriorates.
Call for De-escalation
The Federal Government reiterated its appeal to parties involved in the conflict to prioritise diplomacy and return to negotiations in the interest of global peace and stability.
The advisory follows Saturday’s airstrikes by the United States under President Donald Trump, who stated that the operation aimed to eliminate what he described as imminent threats from Iran.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the strikes as a preventive military action.
Trump also said the United States had begun major combat operations targeting Iranian military infrastructure, adding that the objective was to destroy missile facilities and naval capabilities.
Global Reaction
The escalation has drawn international concern, with the African Union warning that further conflict could threaten global stability.
Similarly, European Council President António Costa described the developments as deeply worrying and emphasised the need for continued engagement with regional partners.
As tensions persist, authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge citizens abroad to prioritise personal safety.
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