The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has issued a strong advisory urging Nigerians residing in Lebanon to leave the country as tensions escalate due to ongoing military conflicts. This announcement comes in response to recent attacks by Israeli forces targeting Hezbollah and other regions in Lebanon.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NIDCOM expressed concern over the safety of Nigerians in the area. The Commission noted that commercial flights are still operational, providing an opportunity for those wishing to evacuate. “Nigerians are advised to consider moving out of the country now that commercial flights are still in operation,” the advisory stated.
In an announcement, Special Assistant to the President Bola Tinubu on Social Media, Dada Olusegun in a post on X, formerly Twitter on Tuesday advised Nigerians in Lebanon to contact the Nigerian mission for documentation.
Liaison with the Nigerian Embassy Encouraged
NIDCOM further encouraged Nigerian citizens to liaise with the Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon for guidance and assistance. “Be rest assured that your welfare and safety is of utmost concern to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement assured.
Reports indicate that the situation in Lebanon has intensified, with eight Israeli soldiers killed in combat in southern Lebanon, according to a statement from the Israeli military on Wednesday. Israel’s military operations against Hezbollah, which has been actively fighting in support of Hamas, have raised alarms internationally.
Reassurance for the Nigerian Community
Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols at NIDCOM, said, “Though information from the Nigerian community in Lebanon indicated that most Nigerians have relocated from the southern part and are now relatively safe, we hereby advise them to keep safe until a ceasefire is in place.”
Balogun also reassured families back home, saying, “It is gratifying to note that thus far, no Nigerian has witnessed any form of accident or injury and we wish to advise them to continue to remain safe while the war lasts.”
As tensions continue to rise in the region, the NIDCOM’s advisory reflects a proactive stance to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians in Lebanon. The Commission urges those in the area to heed this advice and take necessary precautions during this volatile period.
