Leave Now: Nigeria Reiterates Call to Citizens in Lebanon Amid Worsening Conflict

Nigerian Government Raises Concern Over Reluctance of Citizens in Lebanon to Return Amid Escalating Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

The Nigerian government has expressed concern over the apparent reluctance of many Nigerians residing in Lebanon to evacuate, despite the rapidly deteriorating security situation due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

As the hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah intensify, a number of Nigerians in Lebanon have reached out to the federal government, requesting assistance. In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged all Nigerian citizens in Lebanon to promptly contact the Nigerian Embassy for necessary documentation and assistance to facilitate their safe evacuation back to Nigeria.

Despite the federal government’s call for immediate action, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that only about 500 out of approximately 2,000 Nigerians currently living in Lebanon have registered with the Nigerian mission, indicating their intention to be repatriated. The government is concerned that many others are not showing the same willingness to return home, possibly underestimating the risks posed by the escalating conflict.

In light of the situation, the government has reiterated its call to all Nigerians in Lebanon, urging them to take the necessary steps to ensure their safety and cooperate with the embassy to facilitate a smooth evacuation process. The Ministry also warned against resisting evacuation, emphasizing the urgency given the volatile security environment and the potential for further escalation between the warring parties.

The federal government remains committed to the safety and well-being of all its citizens abroad and continues to monitor the situation closely, ready to deploy necessary resources to ensure a safe return for all Nigerians willing to leave Lebanon amidst the ongoing conflict.