Approximately 500 Nigerian citizens have registered with the Nigerian Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, for evacuation amidst the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. However, estimates suggest that over 2,000 Nigerians reside in Lebanon, many of whom remain hesitant to return home despite persuasion from the embassy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Amb. Eche Abu-Obe, confirmed that the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has activated emergency evacuation protocols due to the deteriorating security situation. The Ministry is collaborating with relevant agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency and the Department of State Services, to coordinate the evacuation process.
To ensure the safe return of Nigerians, the embassy has issued advisories urging citizens to stay indoors and follow local authorities’ instructions. The embassy has also appealed to unregistered citizens to register through email: info@mfa.gov.ng.
Plans are underway to deploy a C-130 aircraft or other available flights to transport Nigerians back home. Fortunately, no Nigerian lives have been lost in the conflict, and the embassy has relocated citizens from southern Lebanon to Beirut with the help of community leaders .
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged all Nigerians in Lebanon to cooperate with the evacuation, warning that the conflict may escalate further. Officials have expressed concern over citizens’ hesitance to leave but reassured that the government prioritizes their safety and well-being.
