NIDCOM Confirms Enquiries From Nigerians in Middle East Over Possible Evacuation
- 3 hours ago
- 1 min read
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has dismissed reports suggesting it claimed no distress calls were received from Nigerians caught up in the escalating Middle East crisis, clarifying that such statements were wrongly attributed to the Commission.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, NiDCOM said it never declared that Nigerians stranded in the region had not reached out. The Commission described the circulating claim as inaccurate and misleading.
According to the agency, a number of Nigerians residing in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran have made enquiries regarding potential evacuation plans should the security situation worsen.
The clarification comes amid rising hostilities in the Middle East following reported military strikes carried out on February 28, 2026, by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets.
The strikes reportedly led to the deaths of senior Iranian figures, triggering widespread tensions, airspace restrictions, and heightened security concerns across parts of the Gulf region.
As a result of the unfolding crisis, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria confirmed disruptions to flights bound for several Middle Eastern destinations due to temporary airspace closures.
More than 560 passengers travelling from Nigeria were left stranded after multiple countries halted flight operations, affecting international carriers operating through major Gulf hubs.
NiDCOM assured Nigerians abroad that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant agencies, is closely monitoring developments and will take necessary steps to safeguard citizens, urging those in affected countries to adhere strictly to official travel advisories and emergency guidelines.
Comments