Amid intensifying hostilities between Iran and Israel, some Nigerians stranded in Tehran, Iran’s capital, have accused officials at the Nigerian Embassy of abandoning them and fleeing to safety. The outcry comes as the conflict, now in its eighth day, continues to escalate following Israeli airstrikes on key Iranian military and nuclear sites, including Natanz and the Khondab (formerly Arak) reactor, resulting in heavy casualties and retaliatory attacks by Iran.
In a viral video circulating on social media, a Nigerian man is seen standing in front of the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, expressing deep frustration over the alleged absence of embassy staff during the crisis.
“We are Nigerians. We came to the Nigerian Embassy here in Tehran because we were told residents should evacuate,” the man said. “But when we got here, there was no one to talk to — not even the ambassador. They’ve all left us behind.”
He further claimed that embassy officials, including the ambassador, had reportedly fled to an undisclosed island for safety, leaving Nigerian nationals without guidance or support amid the deteriorating security situation.
“The embassy has abandoned its citizens. We are making this video so it can go viral — so the Nigerian Government knows what is happening,” he added.\
Government Responds
In response to the growing concerns, the Federal Government on Tuesday announced that emergency evacuation plans were being finalised for Nigerians stranded in both Iran and Israel due to the rising tensions.
A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued by spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated that Nigerian embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv were actively reaching out to affected citizens and coordinating evacuation efforts.
The ministry urged all Nigerians in the region to observe local safety directives and register with the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission for updates and assistance.
“The Nigerian Government remains committed to the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad,” the statement said. “We acknowledge the dedication of our diplomatic staff in these affected areas and are working with international partners and local authorities to ensure a safe and timely evacuation.”
As tensions between Iran and Israel threaten to spill over into a broader regional conflict, the situation for Nigerians in the affected zones remains precarious. Many are now looking to the government for swift action to ensure their safety and return home.
