The Nigerian government has expressed concern over the lack of interest shown by many Nigerians residing in Lebanon to return home, despite the ongoing war between Israel and Hezbollah.
This was revealed in a statement by Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Abuja on Saturday.
Addressing the government’s evacuation efforts, Abu-Obe said, “Presently, about 500 Nigerians have registered with the Mission, however, there are more than 2,000 Nigerian citizens residing in the country.
“Even though most of them have not indicated willingness to return home in spite of the persuasion by our Embassy, we will continue to do everything to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Nigerians in Lebanon not to resist evacuation efforts, cautioning, “The Nigerian government urges all citizens living in Lebanon not to resist evacuation because the ongoing conflict may escalate and appeals for cooperation with the evacuation process and follow safety guidelines. Nigeria appreciates the understanding of the international community and will continue to monitor the situation.”
The ministry further clarified, “Following the previous statement on the evacuation of Nigerians from Lebanon, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to provide additional details on the matter.
“In response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated procedures to evacuate its citizens from Lebanon. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prioritizes the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens, and in light of the worsening security situaion in Lebanon, the government has activated emergency protocols to facilitate their swift return home.”
The Ministry, in collaboration with the Presidency, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and other relevant agencies, is working to ensure the safe evacuation of Nigerians from Lebanon.
“Our Embassy in Beirut has consistently issued advisories since the conflict began, urging Nigerian citizens to stay indoors and follow local authorities’ instructions. We also appeal to those who have not yet registered with the Embassy to do so via email: [email protected].”
The ministry reported that there have been no casualties among Nigerian citizens in Lebanon.
It further added, “In light of the commendable efforts of our Embassy, which has worked with the leadership of the Nigerian community to evacuate citizens from southern Lebanon, the epicenter of the conflict, to Beirut, the administration of President Tinubu is making arrangements to deploy a C-130 Aircraft or other available flight for the evacuation exercise.”
The government reiterated its plea for cooperation, stating, “The Nigerian government urges all citizens living in Lebanon not to resist evacuation because the ongoing conflict may escalate, and we appeal for cooperation with the evacuation process. Nigeria appreciates the understanding of the international community and will continue to monitor the situation.”
Post A Comment: