The Federal Government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, has assured the public that all Nigerians residing in Iran are safe and accounted for following recent security concerns in the region.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad, noting that no deaths or injuries involving Nigerian citizens have been reported in the country.
“We remain committed to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians in the diaspora. The situation in Iran underscores the need for proactive engagement and a strong support system,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
In response to emerging tensions, the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran temporarily relocated its operations to Armenia to ensure uninterrupted consular services.
Meanwhile, Nigerian nationals in Iran were advised to move to northern areas such as Shomal, Qom, and Gazvin, which were designated as muster points in the event of an evacuation.
A representative of the Embassy confirmed the measures were strictly precautionary, “Normalcy has returned to these areas, and we are pleased to report that Nigerians in Iran remain safe. There are no confirmed casualties or injuries.”
NiDCOM and the Nigerian Embassy also addressed a viral video circulating on social media, featuring a Nigerian man making unverified claims regarding the safety of Nigerians in Iran.
The man in the video, according to officials, had previously served time in Iran for human trafficking and was accused of using fellow Nigerians as collateral in drug-related activities. Though under a deportation order for over six months, the individual declined to leave until the recent developments.
“Our responsibility is to all Nigerians, regardless of their situation. While we do not condone unlawful acts, we intervened in the spirit of national duty,” the Embassy explained.
Dabiri-Erewa urged all Nigerians abroad to register with Nigerian missions in their respective countries to facilitate effective communication and support, especially in times of crisis.
“This further emphasizes why every Nigerian abroad must register with the nearest Nigerian mission. It enables us to assist effectively, especially during emergencies,” she said.
NiDCOM and the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran have reaffirmed their commitment to closely monitor developments and continue supporting Nigerians abroad with the appropriate diplomatic response and humanitarian coordination.