Nigeria Begins Evacuating Citizens from Iran Amid Israeli and US Bombardments

The Nigerian government has begun evacuating its citizens from Iran as Israeli and US bombardments continue in Tehran and other cities. Officials from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission are assisting evacuees at the Armenian border. So far, no Nigerians have been harmed. African countries, including Tanzania, are actively repatriating citizens amid the escalating conflict, which has killed over 1,255 people and injured around 10,000 in Iran.

The Nigerian government has initiated the evacuation of its citizens stranded in Iran, as Israeli and US forces continue heavy bombardments targeting Tehran and other major cities across the country. The effort is aimed at ensuring the safety of Nigerians caught in the escalating conflict, which has already resulted in significant casualties and widespread disruption.
On Tuesday, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission confirmed that no Nigerian citizens have been harmed so far in the conflict. Commission officials have been deployed to the Armenian border, where they are stationed to receive evacuees and provide assistance to ensure a smooth and secure exit from the country. The commission stated that willing Nigerians are being escorted safely across the border by officials from the Nigerian embassy in Tehran. This operation is designed to facilitate orderly evacuation while minimizing the risks posed by the ongoing military strikes.
The commission did not provide specific figures regarding the total number of Nigerians residing in Iran, nor the exact number of citizens who have already been evacuated. Nonetheless, the government emphasized that it remains committed to the welfare of its citizens abroad, especially those in conflict zones.
This move is part of a broader trend across African countries, which are actively working to repatriate their citizens from the Middle East amid rising hostilities. For instance, on Monday, Tanzania successfully evacuated its first group of citizens from the United Arab Emirates. Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport, the evacuees expressed relief and gratitude as they were reunited with their families, highlighting the human impact of such crises.
Meanwhile, Iranian authorities have reported that the ongoing conflict has resulted in more than 1,255 deaths and approximately 10,000 injuries. These figures underscore the severity of the bombardments and the urgency for foreign nationals, including Nigerians, to be safely evacuated from affected areas. The Nigerian government’s efforts reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding its citizens during international crises and ensuring their safe return home.
African countries continue to monitor the situation closely, coordinating with diplomatic missions, local authorities, and international partners to provide timely assistance to their nationals amidst the intensifying conflict in Iran.