The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has said it has not received any distress call from Nigerians residing in Iran despite the escalating hostilities involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Director of Media and Public Relations at NiDCOM, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, disclosed this in a telephone interview, clarifying that while Nigerians may be in Iran, none has formally contacted the commission for assistance.
“I’m not saying there are no Nigerians there; I’m only saying nobody has sent any distress call,” he stated.
Balogun attributed ongoing flight cancellations to active combat operations, noting that airlines cannot operate in conflict zones. He added that evacuation efforts require formal requests from affected citizens willing to return home.
“You cannot force them; people went there voluntarily. They must seek help and indicate readiness to be evacuated,” he said, stressing that the Federal Government could arrange emergency measures, including chartering aircraft, if necessary.
The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is monitoring developments and considering evacuation options once conditions permit.
Meanwhile, tensions spilled into Lagos as members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria staged protests in the Maryland area, condemning U.S. and Israeli actions and calling for global resistance to foreign intervention. Security operatives were deployed to prevent unrest.
The conflict widened as Lebanon-based Hezbollah reportedly joined hostilities, while Iran struck energy facilities in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The QatarEnergy confirmed a temporary halt in LNG production following drone attacks.
U.S. President Donald Trump said military operations would continue “in full force” until objectives were achieved. The United Kingdom signaled support, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirming cooperation with U.S. requests.
The crisis has impacted global oil markets, with Nigeria’s Bonny Light crude rising to $80 per barrel. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has also declined sharply, disrupting global supply chains.
Authorities maintain that protection of Nigerians abroad remains a priority, urging calm while monitoring the volatile situation.
