By Ochiaka Ugwu
Nigerian government has debunked the reportsd making the rounds that Nigerians living in Iran had been abandoned by their home government on the wake of Israel-Iran war.
In a statement released in Abuja Saturday by Nigerian Foreign Ministry signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, it noted that, “The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to a misleading and unfounded reports circulating on social media and certain news platforms that the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran, Iran, has abandoned Nigerian nationals and departed the country due to the ongoing crisis with Israel.
“The Ministry categorically debunks these allegations and assures the public, particularly Nigerian citizens in Iran, that the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran remains operational and committed to the welfare and safety of all Nigerian nationals in Iran.
“The consistent bombing in Tehran has, however, disrupted normal work schedules and forced staff to work remotely. Given this unfortunate development, the Embassy is actively engaging with the Government of Armenia to grant access for the evacuation of Nigerians via Yerevan.
“Moreover, Nigerians in Iran requiring assistance are encouraged to contact the Embassy directly through its official emergency contacts: Mr. Esson Anzaku +989393216872 and Abutalib +989024199018 +989393216872, and emails: Nigeria.tehran@mfa.gov.nganzakuesson02@gmail.comand lawshed@yahoo.com.
“Nigerians in Iran are also advised to contact the various designated coordinators of the Nigerian Community in these three locations as earlier arranged.
“The Embassy has also advised members of the Nigerian Community to download the Iranian local messaging app, eitaa, and join the Nigerian group for regular updates.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains vigilant in monitoring the situation and will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard the interests of Nigerians worldwide” the statement concluded.
In another development, the Foreign Ministry also informed that collaboration between Nigeria and Armenia to facilitate the safe evacuation of Nigerian citizens from Iran via Yerevan, has reached an advance stage.
According to a statement by the Foreign Ministry, “The assurance was given during a meeting between the Charge d’ Affairs of the Embassy of Nigeria in Iran, Abdulrasheed Omar Lawal, PhD and the Acting Director, Acting Director Middle East and Africa in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Levon Petrosyan where the Head of the Nigerian Embassy in Iran requested for safe passage for Nigerians stranded in Iran.
“This compassionate gesture by Armenia underscores the importance of international solidarity and humanitarian cooperation in times of crisis. Nigeria, therefore, deeply appreciates the willingness of Armenia to assist in ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens caught in the distressing situation.
“Nigeria values the strong diplomatic relations with Armenia and looks forward to further strengthening bilateral ties in the spirit of mutual respect and shared humanity.
“The Nigerian government, through its relevant agencies, is working closely with Armenian authorities and other international partners to coordinate a seamless evacuation process” the statement noted.
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