The Nigerian government has raised concerns about the reluctance of many Nigerians residing in Lebanon to return home, despite the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
In a statement issued by Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was revealed that while over 2,000 Nigerians are currently in Lebanon, only around 500 have registered for evacuation.
“Even though most of them have not indicated a 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,” Abu-Obe said.
The ministry emphasized the importance of cooperation with evacuation efforts, urging Nigerians in Lebanon not to resist as the conflict risks further escalation.
Emergency protocols have been activated to prioritize the safety of Nigerian nationals, with the government working in coordination with agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency, the Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Immigration Service to facilitate the process.
The Nigerian Embassy in Beirut has been advising its citizens to stay indoors and comply with local authorities’ instructions, the ministry said. Nigerians who have not yet registered with the embassy were urged to do so immediately through the designated email address.
No Nigerian lives have been reported lost in the ongoing conflict, and arrangements are being made to deploy a C-130 aircraft or other available flights to aid in the evacuation, particularly from Beirut, where many have relocated from southern Lebanon, the epicenter of the clashes.
The Nigerian government expressed its gratitude to the international community for their cooperation and pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely.
