The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed concerns about the reluctance of many Nigerians in Lebanon to return home amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
In a statement released by Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was revealed that only approximately 500 Nigerians have registered for evacuation, despite there being over 2,000 Nigerians currently residing in Lebanon.
Ambassador Abu-Obe emphasized that despite the embassy's efforts to persuade them, most Nigerians in Lebanon have not shown a willingness to return home. The government, however, remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens.
The ministry emphasized the importance of cooperation with the evacuation process, urging Nigerians in Lebanon not to resist evacuation, as the conflict could further escalate.
Emergency protocols have been activated to prioritize the safety of Nigerian citizens, with collaboration from various agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency, the Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Immigration Service, to facilitate a smooth evacuation process.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that the Nigerian Embassy in Beirut has been actively advising Nigerians to stay indoors and adhere to local authorities’ instructions. Additionally, it encouraged those who have not registered with the embassy to do so immediately via the provided email address.
The statement confirmed that no Nigerian lives have been lost in the conflict thus far. Arrangements are being made to dispatch a C-130 aircraft or other available flights to facilitate the evacuation from Beirut, where many Nigerians have relocated from southern Lebanon—the epicenter of the conflict.
The Nigerian government expressed gratitude to the international community for their understanding and pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely.