The Federal Government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NIDCOM, has advised Nigerians residing in Lebanon to consider leaving the country due to escalating attacks by the Israeli government on Hezbollah and other areas within Lebanon who have been fighting in support of Hamas in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
A statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols Unit at NIDCOM, noted that while most Nigerians in Lebanon have moved from the southern part and are relatively safe, they should remain cautious until a ceasefire is secured.
They also disclosed that no Nigerians have been harmed so far. “It is gratifying to note that, so far, no Nigerian has suffered any injuries or accidents during the ongoing conflict,” the statement read.
“We urge all Nigerians to continue prioritising their safety while the war persists.”
NIDCOM also advised Nigerian citizens to stay in close contact with the Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon for further guidance and reassured them that their welfare and security are top priorities for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Plans to airlift Nigerians out of Lebanon
The Federal Government has since commenced arrangements for the evacuation of Nigerians living in Lebanon who are willing to return home following the crisis in the country.
On Friday October 4, 2023, the federal government said it convened a multi-stakeholder meeting where briefs were received on the condition of Nigerians in Lebanon and preparations by various agencies towards the success of the evacuation exercise. This was disclosed in a statement issued by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Friday.
NEMA, in a statement said it is coordinating the evacuation, which has started with mobilisation of the citizens and would be followed immediately with all requirements to bring them home.
“In view of the planned voluntary evacuation, those Nigerians willing to be evacuated back home are advised to report to the Embassy in Beirut where they will be profiled for the airlift,” it stated.
