The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja has revealed that many Nigerian nationals in conflict-stricken Lebanon are hesitant to return home, despite the federal government’s evacuation plans. This information was shared in a press release on the ministry’s X page on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
The announcement, titled “Evacuation of Nigerians from Lebanon Amidst the Israel-Hezbollah Conflict,” expressed concern over the unwillingness of Nigerians to leave amid the ongoing crisis. The ministry had previously confirmed that the Federal Government was preparing for the evacuation of its citizens from Lebanon due to the escalating Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
In a follow-up statement signed by Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was noted that approximately 500 Nigerians had registered with the Nigerian mission in Lebanon, while more than 2,000 Nigerian citizens are believed to be residing there. Despite efforts by diplomatic offices to persuade them, most Nigerians are still refusing to return.
“Although many have not shown a willingness to come home despite our Embassy’s efforts, we will continue to prioritize the safety of our citizens,” Abu-Obe stated. She urged all Nigerians living in Lebanon to cooperate with the evacuation process and adhere to safety guidelines, emphasizing that the ongoing conflict could escalate.
The administration of President Tinubu is making arrangements to deploy a C-130 aircraft or other available flights for the evacuation. The government appreciates the international community’s support and will closely monitor the situation.
Additionally, the ministry noted that Nigerian nationals in southern Lebanon have been relocated to Beirut and other safer areas with assistance from local Nigerian community leaders.
This advisory comes amid increasing concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon, exacerbated by heightened hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The ongoing conflict, rooted in long-standing territorial and political disputes, has led to instability in Southern Lebanon and surrounding regions. Hezbollah, a militant group, has engaged in intermittent clashes with Israeli forces, often drawing Lebanon into broader Middle Eastern conflicts.
In recent weeks, the conflict has intensified, with rocket fire and airstrikes impacting civilian areas, raising fears of a wider regional war. Lebanon, already facing a severe economic crisis and political instability, is experiencing further strain as violence escalates, putting foreign nationals, including thousands of Nigerians, at risk.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has urged its citizens in Lebanon to return home, citing the escalating violence in the region.
