By Ayo Kehinde
The Federal Government has issued a travel advisory to Nigerians residing in the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries, urging heightened vigilance and restricted movement following escalating military actions in the Middle East.
In a press release dated Saturday, February 28, and signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government said it is closely monitoring the volatile situation arising from reported military operations by Israel and the United States against targets in Iran, as well as subsequent retaliatory actions by Iran in parts of the Gulf region.
The advisory, numbered MFA/PR/2026/21, warned of heightened tensions and the potential for further escalation, prompting the Ministry to outline precautionary measures for Nigerian citizens currently in Iran and affected Gulf states.
According to the statement, Nigerians are advised to maintain constant vigilance and remain conscious of their surroundings at all times. They were specifically cautioned to avoid areas considered strategic, including military and government installations, which could become flashpoints in the ongoing conflict.
The government also strongly recommended that citizens restrict non-essential travel and movement within their host countries until the security situation stabilises. Nigerians were urged to avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations, which may pose additional risks amid the tense environment.
In addition, the Ministry emphasised the importance of complying strictly with local security and safety directives issued by authorities in their countries of residence. It noted that cooperation with local law enforcement agencies remains critical to ensuring personal safety.
Citizens were further encouraged to stay informed through reliable international and local news sources while exercising caution against misinformation. The statement advised Nigerians to rely on official communication channels for accurate and timely safety updates.
The advisory disclosed that the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran, along with missions in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, are on high alert to provide necessary consular assistance and facilitate communication with affected nationals.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to assess the situation and provide further updates as necessary. We wish to assure the general public that the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remains the top priority of the Federal Government”, the statement read.
The Federal Government also called on all parties involved in the conflict to de-escalate tensions and return to dialogue in the interest of global peace and co-existence.
The latest advisory comes amid growing international concern over the spiralling security situation in the Middle East and its potential global implications.
