FG secures Armenian route for Nigerians in Iran, dismisses abandonment claims

By Kunle Sanni

The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that its embassy in Tehran remains operational despite the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict, dismissing reports that diplomatic staff had abandoned citizens in the region.

In a statement on Saturday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described social media claims as misleading and unfounded, stating that embassy officials are still on duty, though operations have been disrupted by continued bombings in Tehran.

To safeguard Nigerians, the embassy has intensified efforts with the Government of Armenia to provide safe passage for those seeking evacuation through Yerevan.

Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa confirmed that the evacuation arrangement is at an advanced stage, following discussions between Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires in Iran, Dr Abdulrasheed Omar Lawal, and Armenia’s Acting Director for the Middle East and Africa, Mr Levon Petrosyan.

The Ministry noted that this cooperation reflects growing diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Armenia, which it is committed to strengthening further.

Nigerians in Iran were urged to remain calm and maintain communication with the embassy through designated emergency contacts and coordinators.

Citizens were also advised to download the local messaging app, Eitaa, and join the Nigerian community group on the platform for real-time updates.

Reaffirming its commitment to citizens’ safety abroad, the Ministry assured that all necessary measures would be taken to coordinate a smooth evacuation in collaboration with Armenian authorities and other partners.