The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed the safety and well-being of all Nigerians residing in Iran, amidst recent regional security concerns. The assurance came through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran.
Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in a statement issued from Abuja, emphasized that there have been no reported cases of death or injury involving Nigerian citizens in Iran.
“We remain committed to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians in the diaspora. The situation in Iran underscores the need for proactive engagement and a strong support system,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She praised the swift and coordinated response by the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, urging all Nigerians abroad to register with their respective embassies to ensure effective communication and emergency support.
Due to operational exigencies, the Nigerian Embassy was temporarily relocated to Armenia to ensure uninterrupted consular services. Meanwhile, Nigerian nationals were moved to safer areas in northern Iran, including Shomal, Qom, and Gazvin designated muster points in case evacuation becomes necessary.
A representative of the Embassy confirmed that the steps taken were precautionary and that calm had since returned to the affected areas. “Normalcy has returned to these areas, and we are pleased to report that Nigerians in Iran remain safe. There are no confirmed casualties or injuries,” the Embassy noted.
The government also responded to a viral video featuring a Nigerian man making unverified claims about the situation. According to official clarification, the individual had previously been incarcerated in Iran over human trafficking and allegedly using other Nigerians as collateral in drug-related activities. He was released on humanitarian grounds despite a six-month-old deportation order but had refused to leave Iran until the recent unrest.
“Our responsibility is to all Nigerians, regardless of their situation. While we do not condone unlawful acts, we intervened in the spirit of national duty,” the Embassy stated. “This further emphasizes why every Nigerian abroad must register with the nearest Nigerian mission. It enables us to assist effectively, especially during emergencies.”
NiDCOM and the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran pledged continued collaboration to monitor the situation closely and ensure the protection and welfare of all Nigerian citizens in the region.
